Education, research, and practice: bridging the gap

The purpose of this study was to identify the research activities that were part of dietetic internship and coordinated undergraduate programs. Data about required research courses, research-related experiences, curriculum competencies, student publications, and faculty needs were obtained from 79 dietetic internship and 46 coordinated undergraduate program directors. Research courses were required in 60% of the programs and most often included basic statistics and review of the literature. Attendance at research conferences and observation of research dietitians were the most frequent learning experience activities. A wide variety of research projects were required by 71% of the programs, but there were few student opportunities to participate in faculty-sponsored research. The ability to evaluate literature critically, knowledge of research concepts, and application of research findings to dietetic practice were the most frequently cited competency statements. Less than 2% of graduates in a 3-year period had published in professional journals. Faculty members believed they needed more time, money, educational materials, professional development, and access to research facilities to improve the research component of the program. These findings suggest that research competencies may need to be prioritized differently in view of changing needs in dietetic practice.