«Would you take the shot? » Candidate teachers’ trust in science and scientists


Published: Sep 13, 2024
Keywords:
Pseudoscience vaccine hesitancy Nature of Science
Asimakis Talamagas
Apostolia Galani
Evangelia Mavrikaki
Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic challenged trust in science as pseudoscientific and conspiracy theories emerged. This study, involving undergraduate primary Education students (N=565), found a significant portion exhibiting vaccine hesitancy, citing concerns about vaccine safety and skepticism toward government authorities. While students showed marginal trust in science, there was distrust in its practical applications, such as vaccination. These findings underscore the gap between science as an institution and trust in its real-world applications. Promoting scientific literacy, understanding the Nature of Science, and addressing cognitive biases are crucial to combatting pseudoscientific beliefs. Educators, playing a pivotal role, require careful attention to their attitudes on these issues.

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References
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