Assessing Medical Researchers’ Awareness & Knowledge of Data Analysis Software in a Nigerian University

Abstract

Background: Many low and middle-income countries (LMICs) have limited research capacity, especially in health-related research. One of the more difficult aspects of research experienced by researchers is data analysis and several data analysis software programs have been developed and are available to facilitate data analysis.

Objectives: This is an exploratory study to assess the experience of academic staff in the Faculty of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria with research analysis software.

Methods: Questionnaires were distributed to all consenting academic staff at a Faculty Board Meeting of the Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Nigeria Enugu campus. Data sought included the respondents’ sociodemographic characteristics, and their awareness and use of specified data analysis software packages. Data analysis was done using STATA V.12 (StatCorp, Texas), and tests of significance were set at P < 0.05.

Results: Slightly more than half of the respondents (53.6%) could analyze their research data independently. There was no relationship between respondents’academic rank and ability to independently analyze data (P > 0.05). Qualitative data analysis software appears relatively unknown to the respondents. All the participants expressed a willingness to attend a data analysis workshop and 78.6% were willing to pay for it.

Conclusion: There is a great need in the faculty to build capacity in the use of research analysis software especially the qualitative data analysis software.