Viewpoints of Basic Science Students about the Affecting Factors on Class Attendance and its Correlation with Their Academic Performance in Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences (2018)

Abstract Introduction: The aim of the current study was the evaluation of the viewpoints of basic science students about the affecting factors on class attendance and its correlation with their academic performance, and investigating the motivation and attendance rate of the students in different basic sciences classes in Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences. Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 247 basic sciences students. Cronbach's alpha coefficient was used for evaluation of reliability and internal consistency of the questionnaire, which showed a high level of internal consistency (0.83). Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficient test, and regression analysis were used for statistical analysis of data. Result: According to the students' viewpoints, class attendance had a positive effect on learning, and “teacher’s related factors” and “the students' attitude toward the course's subject” had the most important role in their attendance. Furthermore, there was a significant positive correlation between the students' grades and "learning of lesson's contents", and “taking higher scores" (r=0.273 and r=0.207, respectively). According to the student’s announcement, the most common classes, which they participate in, were physiology, anatomy, embryology, epidemiology and bacteriology. Conclusion: The students with higher grades mostly attended in classes with the motivation of learning and taking higher grades, and they prioritize attending in specific classes. Due to the teachers' determinant role in students’ class attendance, the using of this information is suggested for the evaluation of teachers and the success rate of the educational system. Keywords: Education, Basic science students, Attendance, Teacher's evaluation