Interest in research questionnaire¿short (IRQ): Validation in Spanish-speaking university students Academic Article in Scopus uri icon

abstract

  • The interest in research is a sociocognitive construct commonly assessed using the Interest in Research Questionnaire (IRQ) in English-speaking populations. However, no studies have validated the IRQ among Spanish-speaking undergraduate students. This study aimed to analyze the psychometric properties of the IRQ in a sample of Spanish-speaking Peruvian students (Lima, Peru). After excluding potentially careless responses, the effective sample comprised 339 students (age: M = 22.8, SD = 3.8). The evaluation included item analysis, internal structure (dimensionality, group equivalence, and reliability), and its relationship with perceived research competencies. The items demonstrated highly consistent distribution moments (mean, standard deviation, skewness, and kurtosis) with near-zero associations with sex, academic semester, and perceived research competencies. A unidimensional congeneric model was identified, with no evidence of differential item functioning by sex, academic semester, or perceived competencies. Score reliability was high (¿ > 0.90). No statistically significant differences were found by sex, age, or academic semester. However, perceived research competencies and the intention to present at a scientific event were strongly correlated with research interest. The findings highlight the IRQs psychometric robustness in assessing interest in research among Spanish-speaking undergraduates and underscore its relevance for advancing research education. We also discuss implications for undergraduate research development in Spanish-speaking contexts. © 2025 The Authors

publication date

  • November 1, 2025