Positive and negative attitudes towards research of undergraduate students: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Scientific research is extremely significant in nearly every element of modern life. Students at the undergraduate college or university level tend to perceive research-related courses with both positive and negative emotions. However, the previous studies mainly focus on positive attitudes; to our knowledge, few research explored the negative attitude of undergraduate students. This study investigates both positive and negative attitudes of the Vietnamese undergraduate students towards research. A total of 1067 respondents were sampled and who completed the Attitudes Toward Research Scale questionnaire. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the t-test, Pearson correlation, and an analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results showed that the reliability of the scales was high and acceptable; and the validity of the scales was good and acceptable fit. There were both positive and negative attitudes toward research among undergraduates. Significant differences were seen between gender, school year, research experience, and continued study groups. Male students, who had research experience, and those who continued study had more positive attitudes than others. This study presents several theories for comparison and explanation with prior research. In addition, colleges must place a greater emphasis on teaching and scientific research in order to provide students with essential information and enhance their attitudes toward scientific research.