Table 5 Examples of comments in reflective commentaries regarding confidence in research skills
From: Evaluation of a learner-designed course for teaching health research skills in Ghana
Research confidence theme | Illustrative extracts from reflective statements |
|---|---|
Reasons for lack of confidence | • 'I did not know how to start. I did not have the confidence to even start something no matter how small it may be' • 'I felt like I was lost in a maze with an assortment of heavy loads on my back' |
Increased research skills confidence | • '...going through the course has helped me overcome my fears and anxieties concerning research' • 'I have acquired skills and confidence needed to design and conduct research projects' • 'I now feel very confident in discussing matters about research and have developed the interest in converting many clinical problems in the society into clinical research' |
Improved self-confidence | • 'it [the course] has taught me the need to expand my frontiers and be self-confident' • 'I have enough potential in me to achieve whatever I set my mind to do' • 'I have had the confidence to pursue anything I intend doing without being intimidated by personalities.' • '... [the course activities] have made me a critical thinker' |