Reasons of Absence from Theoretical Classes Based on Students’ Viewpoints in Tabriz University of Medical Sciences in 2018

Introduction: Education is considered as the first step in human activities. Students’ attendance in theoretical classes has a great impact on their acquisition of knowledge and future career. Therefore, this study surveyed the causes of absenteeism in Tabriz University of Medical Sciences based on students’ viewpoints. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study evaluated 277 dental, medical and pharmacology students in basic sciences course in Tabriz University of Medical Sciences in 2018. The questionnaire consisted of 26 questions in five-point Likert scale (1 to 5) in 4 categories. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: Considering the average scores of categories, two categories with more significant role in students’ absenteeism from theoretical classes based on students’ viewpoints were: instructor’s academic ability and teaching method (3.17±0.45, 2.93±0.66, 3.5±0.3), and student’s personal conditions, including occupation, interest in the field of study, etc (2.83±0.59, 2.83±0.55, 3.1±0.47). The most and least important factors affecting absenteeism were inadequate sleep at night (4.14) and coeducational classes (1.50). Conclusion: Given the important role of presentation method, effective relationship between instructors and students and interest in class subject in students’ attendance, emphasis should be placed on employing skillful instructors and screening the old ones in order to reduce the rate of absenteeism. In addition, having remarkable effect on the quality of education, it is essential to reform the educational system and reschedule class timetables.