Validation of Research Self-Efficacy Scale for Postgraduate Students of Ferdowsi University and Mashhad University of Medical Sciences

Introduction: One of the important factors directing research and research motivation is research self-efficacy. The aim of this research is developing and validating a research self-efficacy scale for postgraduate students. Methods: Statistical population included postgraguate students in Ferdowsi University and Mashhad University of Medical Sciences. The sample (240 students) was chosen using quota. The researcher-made questionnare had 55 items using likret 5-point scale. Content validity was confirmed by professors and experts. For verifying reliability, we measured internal consistency and for verifying and testing factorial structure, we used confirmatory factor analysis. Results: Factor analysis showed a 7-component structure conformed by theoretical basis and item segregation better than other variations. Factor analysis indices confirmed validity construct and theoretical conformity (RSMEA=0/093، χ2=3794.69, df=1409).The total Alfa obtained was 0.97 and 0.83, 0.76, 0.88, 0.92, 0.90, 0.91 and 0.92 for statistical and analytical, conceptual, methodological, qualitative, reporting, skill and ethical self-efficacy subscales, respectively. In general, results show that research self-efficacy scale has acceptable reliability and validity. Mean of students’ research self efficacy was 173.76 that is average size. Conclusion: The developed research self-efficacy scale has acceptable reliability and validity. So, it can be used for assessing research beliefs, capacity and attitudes in students