THE IMPORTANCE OF SCIENTIFIC INITIATION AND EXTENSION PROJECTS TO THE UNDERGRADUATION IN MEDICINE.

Abstract

Objective: University has its basis in the inseparability of Teaching, Research and Extension. Given this, it was aimed to investigate the level of knowledge on research/extension programs, as well as to profile the key areas involved in projects at the Center for Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Campina Grande (UFCG / CCBS), with students from the 1st to 8th periods of medical school. Material and Methods: We carried out a quantitative descriptive study from March to April 2012. Data collection was conducted by means of questionnaires about participation, interest and problems to join undergraduate research and extension programs. Results: Of the 149 students, 18.1% referred to lack of time as the main problem for entering into the programs. The participation of students in the programs increases during the course, while interest in participating has been present since the earliest periods. A total of 91.4% believe that these projects contribute to their professional training and point curriculum enrichment as the main focus for them to be engaged. Regarding areas of expertise, gynecology / obstetrics (29.41%) are the preferred axis for research as public health (22.72%) is for extension. Conclusion: It is noticed that there is a deficiency in relation to the access of medical students to research and extension activities. Increased awareness and access to information are effective in engaging students to extra-curricular activities. DECRIPTORS: Medicine. Community-Institutional Relations. Research Projects. Undergraduate Medical Education.