Representations of Research among Newly Graduated Paramedical Professionals: A Qualitative Study

Evelyne Decullier, Mathilde Chauliaguet, Arnaud Siméone, Julie Haesebaert and Agnès Witko
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Evelyne Decullier: Hospices Civils de Lyon, Pôle Santé Publique, Service de Recherche et Epidémiologie Cliniques, F-69003 Lyon, France
Mathilde Chauliaguet: Institut des Sciences et Pratiques d’Education et de Formation (ISPEF), Université Lyon 2, F-69007 Lyon, France
Arnaud Siméone: Institut des Sciences et Pratiques d’Education et de Formation (ISPEF), Université Lyon 2, F-69007 Lyon, France
Julie Haesebaert: Hospices Civils de Lyon, Pôle Santé Publique, Service de Recherche et Epidémiologie Cliniques, F-69003 Lyon, France
Agnès Witko: Institut des Sciences et Techniques de la Réadaptation (ISTR), Université Lyon 1, CEDEX 03, F-69373 Lyon, France

IJERPH, 2021, vol. 18, issue 21, 1-13

Abstract: Despite a keen interest in clinical research, most paramedical professionals are unwilling to play an active role. Our objective was to explore paramedical professionals’ representations of research. Using an existing database of final year paramedical students (speech therapy, occupational therapy, psychomotricity, audiometry, physiotherapy, orthoptics), we deployed a qualitative approach composed of two successive steps: (1) a free word association task, and (2) semi-structured individual interviews. Out of the 54 students who agreed to be contacted, we received 21 responses to the free word association questionnaire, and 11 interviews were conducted. The hierarchical evocation matrix revealed that the scientific representation of research is based on words defining the research and the purpose of the research. “Collaboration” was identified as being an essential part of the research process. The central core of the representation is coherent with all its components perceived as positive. The content analysis of the interviews showed a polarization around two key points: (1) participants are interested in accessing and using evidence in their practice (2) but feel less confident about and/or motivated to generate evidence themselves. This study highlights the need to develop more research-friendly environments, especially in training institutions.

Keywords: paramedical professional; paramedical research; qualitative study (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
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