Enhancing didactic education through participation in a clinical research project

The purpose of this study was to assess self-evaluation of knowledge and skills (e.g., counseling, education, interviewing, and assessment skills) of students participating as research assistants. Fifteen students enrolled in the Dietetics Program (n = 10) or the Graduate Program in Nutrition (n = 5) were recruited as research assistants via flyers and announcements in nutrition courses. These students assisted faculty researchers with their clinical study called "Weight Loss Effects on Bone Mass in Adolescent Females." The clinical study included a comprehensive 6-month weight-loss program. Surveys asking students to evaluate their experience as research assistants were mailed with a self-addressed, stamped envelope to all 15 student research assistants, followed by a reminder telephone call. Thirteen surveys (87%) were returned. On a Likert scale (1 = poor, 5 = excellent) student research assistants scored 63% of the knowledge-based and skill-based requirements of their research participation as "good" (mean score > or = 4.0) and 27% as "adequate" (4.0 > or = mean > or = 3.5). Open-ended questions reported the research experience to be beneficial in developing knowledge and skills and in identifying knowledge deficits (e.g., behavior modification). According to our findings, it seems that participation in clinical research enhances students' knowledge and skills and, thus, is valuable in preparing dietetics students for future practice.