Publication practices of medical students at British medical schools: experience, attitudes and barriers to publish

Abstract

Introduction: With research playing a vital role in improving clinical practice, it is important that medical students understand the role of research and submitting articles for publication. Therefore, the aim of this study was to ascertain the experience, motivation and attitude of publishing of medical students.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey of British medical students from seven medical schools in the United Kingdom.

Results: Seventy-two of 515 had submitted an article for publication with a total of 124 articles being submitted. The main motivation to publish was for career progression. For the students that had not published, not having an opportunity to perform research was felt to be the main barrier. Only 49% of students had taken part in a research or audit project. Sixty-two percent of students stated they were not encouraged by the seniors to participate in research projects. From 515 medical students, only 88 students had submitted an article for a scientific meeting.

Conclusions: Students have a positive attitude towards publishing and they feel it is important. However, it is clear that students require and would welcome education in writing papers and abstracts, skills that they will need in their postgraduate careers.