Students’ Attitudes and Challenges towards Research Work in Southern Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract

In contemporary society, students' attitudes are more important than their experiences and academic learning. Maintaining a favorable attitude towards research is one crucial factor for achieving success and progress in a knowledge-based society. The study's objective was to examine the attitudes and challenges faced by M.Phil students toward research work in South Punjab. The study population comprised M.Phil students. A stratified sampling technique was used to choose a sample of 312 students from five universities in both the public and private sectors. Data collection was conducted using a self-developed questionnaire based on a five-point Likert scale. The data underwent analysis using the statistical package for social sciences, employing both descriptive and inferential methodologies. Inferential analysis based on sector and gender was conducted using an independent sample t-test and ANNOVA (Analysis of Variance) for universities. These study findings concluded that students have a high intention to conduct research. Although students are interested in research, they still have some academic and institutional support, resource accessibility, supervisory support, time management and financial constraints, psychological aspects, and ethical practices related to research work.