Assessing elementary understanding of electromagnetic radiation and its implementation in wireless technologies among pre-service teachers
Leonidas Gavrilas, Konstantinos Τ. Kotsis
Abstract
The research on the knowledge and perceptions of electromagnetic radiation among teachers who will teach these topics in primary and secondary education is relatively limited. According to existing literature, electromagnetic radiation is a challenging and complex concept for students to comprehend. Despite the widespread use of radiation-emitting devices like cell phones and wireless networks, the misuse of the term “radiation” has resulted in various misconceptions. This study aimed to examine the elementary understanding of electromagnetic radiation and its application in wireless technologies among prospective primary and secondary education teachers from different specialties. 427 pre-service teachers participated in the survey, and the data was gathered through a closed questionnaire. The study’s overall conclusion was that teachers’ knowledge regarding electromagnetic radiation was insufficient. The curricula of their departments, their interests in high school courses, and their gender significantly affect their understanding of electromagnetic radiation and its application to wireless technologies.