Practical tips for undertaking a medical education research project at undergraduate level: Recommendations for both students and supervisors

Many undergraduate medical programmes now require students to develop research and medical students are increasingly choosing to undertake medical education projects at undergraduate level. As medical education research often requires different ways of thinking about knowledge and research compared with biomedical disciplines, undergraduate medical education research can be challenging for students and supervisors alike. This paper aims to address a gap in the literature, by providing recommendations for both students and supervisors involved in undergraduate medical education research. Our practical tips are based upon reflections and insights from an undergraduate student who undertook a medical education research project and an experienced undergraduate research supervisor. The importance of good organisational, time management and communication skills are highlighted. Students should recognise and make the most of the unique learning opportunities that are present when undertaking a medical education research project and supervisors should be attentive and supportive of their individual students’ needs.