An investigation into the Knowledge, Attitude, and Performance of the Students in Birjand University of Medical Science about Computer and Internet Use

Background: Computers and Internet  play an ever- increasing and important role in medical education.This research was performed to determine the rate of knowledge, attitude, and performance of the students of Birjand University of Medical Science in the case of  computer and Internet use. Methods:  This descriptive – analytical study was performed on 425 students of Birjand University of Medical Science selected by random systematic classification sampling. Knowledge , attitude, and performance of the students were evaluated  by using a self – structured questionnaire that had already been completed by faculty members of Birjand University of Medical Sciences and its reliability was confirmed. The data entered into SPSS software and was analyzed by using the Chi- Square test in level ( ).                                 Findings:  Of  425 Students studied , 227 (53.4%) were female.  In the field of measuring computer  knowledge of the students, 56.9% had minimal computer knowledge. In the field of attitude, 69.4% had a good attitude and 30.1% had an  average one. In the area of skill , 49.6% did not have enogh skills  in using software and 38.8% in using internet facilities. The students were mostly skilled in using Word (54.6%) and Power point (52.7%). There was a statistical significant relationship between performance (Using internet Services) and gender and between awareness and education level of the students (P< 0/05).  Conclusion:  Considering the limited knowledge and skill and the positive attitude of the students regarding computer and Internet, designing and compiling the training programs related to the computer in the form of scheduled workshops with repeatability and preparing the computer centers of the university are suggested.