correlation between knowledge and practice (r =0.251, p= 0.010). College related barriers and overcrowded students’ timetable
were the main perceived barriers for reading (84.8% and 79.0% respectively). Pocket books were used by 92.4% of students as medical
reference, and were the most useful source as stated by 33.3% of them. The mean time spent on online sources of reading is less
than that spent on other sources as pocket books and lecture handouts.
Conclusion: Medical students spent less time on reading and depended mainly on pocket books as they gave the desired knowledge
in short time and concise form. The stated reading barriers included college barrier, insufficient time and source barrier. There
was contradiction between students’ knowledge of the importance of reading and its actual practice.
Keywords: : Medical; Reading; Students