A survey on characteristics of a competent university Professor's from Viewpoints of Students of Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences

Professors are considered a very crucial factor in educating students. Identifying the criteria of a competent professor and trying to evaluate and apply them in teaching the professors will enhance the learning process. The purpose of this study was to survey the characteristics of a competent professor from the viewpoint of students of Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences. This research was a descriptive cross-sectional study. The research population included students of Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences. The sample size was 250 and the stratified random sampling method was used. The data collection tool was a questionnaire and its validity and reliability were confirmed in previous studies. In this questionnaire, 4 domains of science education, teaching method, individual character, and ability to communicate were measured. Data were analyzed by descriptive (mean, standard deviation, frequency percentage) and analytical (independent t-test and one-way ANOVA) statistics in SPSS. The most important characteristics of a competent professor from the student's point of view were mastery in teaching (4.9 ± 0.41), and spontaneous expression (4.78 ± 0.46), respectively. On the other hand, solidarity and assertiveness (3.58±1.02), as well as teaching experience (3.9 ± 1.01), were among the characteristics that students scored the least. The teaching method was the most important feature of a competent professor from the viewpoint of the students. Universities must consider these features in retaining professors or they may prepare them for a better education via teaching methods as well as effective communication workshops.