Opportunities and Challenges During Research Training in Dental Education

Introduction: The promotion of research activities from the undergraduate level is considered a favorable indicator of educational quality. Objective: To gather the opinions and perceptions of deans and directors regarding the opportunities and challenges related to research training in undergraduate dental education. Methods: A cross-sectional study included 13 deans/directors who attended the 7th Assembly of the International Federation of Schools and Faculties of Dentistry. Roundtable discussions were held, where curricular and extracurricular research activities were compiled. Open-ended questions were also asked about the challenges and opportunities related to research activity in undergraduate dental education. Results: Authorities reported on multiple academic projects completed by students. The most common was a research project (reported in 10 schools, with multiple titles: thesis, undergraduate thesis, final degree project, dissertation, final project, integrative project). Opportunities for research promotion were primarily financial benefits for student projects or publications, as well as hiring research faculty. Conclusions: Dental authorities agree on implementing strategies and initiatives to promote student research from the undergraduate level. Opportunities include granting financial benefits for student projects or publications, hiring research faculty, promoting formative research, and offering partial or full scholarships for graduate studies. The main challenges relate to student motivation and dedication, as well as teacher training regarding research teaching strategies.