Evaluation of the accuracy of research variables, study population, sample size and sampling methods in terms of research methodology in student theses of Islamic Azad University, Dental Branch

For each and every graduate student the process of composing a thesis is the center part of training and education in research methodology. The content of such material becomes important when the research study turns into a manuscript which is submitted for publication in a journal of medical sciences. Deficiencies and drawbacks in terms of research methodology in student theses still remains a controversial issue. Due to lack of sufficient information concerning the accuracy of research methodology in student theses, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of research methodology in several aspects of student theses including: research variables, study population, sample size, sampling method and associated factors. The research was conducted on student theses in Islamic Azad University, school of Dentistry in 2007-2008. All presented theses from 09/23/2007 to 09/21/2008 in Islamic Azad University, Dental Branch were evaluated in this descriptive study. Based on 13 variables, aspects such as research variables, study population, sample size and sampling method were assessed for accuracy and classified into 3 categories (correct, relatively correct and incorrect). Information regarding associated factors including student specifications, related department and head researcher… were collected and entered into a data sheet. Each thesis was assessed for accuracy as follows: "correct: if more than 75% of variables were correct"; "relatively correct: if 50-75% of variables were correct"; "incorrect: if less than 50% of variables were correct". The role of associated factors was determined using chi-square statistical test. 137 student theses were evaluated. The rate of inaccuracy in research methodology of research variables, study population, sample size and sampling method was found to be 40.2%. Failure to justify the sample size was seen in 71% of the cases, incorrect organization of data sheet was reported in 53%, and not stating all the variables including new and compound variables was seen in 37% of theses. This study indicated that there are significant drawbacks in student theses which mandate proper steps to be taken to reduce the level of inaccuracies in research methodology. This will not only improve the validity of the research itself but will also provide reliable results to be applied to general population.