A Qualitative Needs Assessment of Biomedical Research Training Course

Introduction: The expansion and development of biomedical sciences and their complexity and specialization have brought about the need for training competent specialists to carry out research in this field. The present study aimed to perform a needs assessment and determine the objectives of biomedical research training course. Methods: This qualitative needs assessment was carried out through semi-structured interviews with ten experts in biomedical-related sciences who were selected by purposive sampling. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyze the results. In order to verify the accuracy of data, an investigative method was used by the subjects. Results: Most interviewees acknowledged the necessity of designing such a course. Data analysis resulted in the extraction of 75 codes and 7 main themes including: necessity of course designing, course objectives, course content, content organization, learners’ characteristics, time of course offering, and certification. Conclusion: The study led to the extraction of educational needs of a biomedical research training course which could become the basis of developing such a curriculum. Drawing on these basic data developed by applying proper scientific principles, it is expected that the implementation of this course may train competent learners who will be responsive to stakeholders’ expectations.