Bridging the Research Competency Gap in Optometry Education: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Barriers Among Undergraduate Students in Kerala.

Background: Research plays a vital role in evidence-based healthcare and contributes to the development of critical thinking and professional competence among healthcare students. Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and perceived barriers toward research among undergraduate optometry students in Kerala.

Methods: A multicenter cross-sectional survey was conducted among undergraduate optometry students enrolled in Kerala University of Health Sciences-affiliated institutions. Data were collected using a pre-validated online questionnaire comprising demographic details, research knowledge, attitudes, and perceived barriers. Knowledge was categorized as poor, intermediate, or high based on predefined scoring criteria. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were used for data analysis.

Results: A total of 269 students participated in the study. Most participants demonstrated intermediate research knowledge (62.4%), while only 7.8% exhibited high knowledge levels. Positive attitudes toward research were observed, with 89% agreeing that research is useful for healthcare professionals and 87% believing it would benefit their future careers. However, 73% reported difficulty understanding research concepts, and 64% experienced anxiety regarding research data analysis. The most commonly reported barriers were lack of funding (16.0%), inadequate infrastructure (14.0%), and academic workload (12.2%). A significant association was found between year of study and research knowledge (p = 0.003).

Conclusion: Undergraduate optometry students in Kerala possess positive attitudes toward research but demonstrate predominantly moderate knowledge levels. Strengthening research training, mentorship, and institutional support may enhance research competency and participation.