Greek Senior High School Students’ Perceptions about Science and the Scientific Community as These Appear in the Mass Media

Abstract

This research aimed on revealing Greek senior high school students’ perceptions about the role of science and scientists in society as well as the impact of mass media regarding scientific issues such as was the occasion of the H1N1 pandemic. The sample of our study consisted of 97 Greek senior high school students whose answers in an open question were analyzed by means of Content Analysis. Their statements revealed that they have a utilitarian view of science and technology, though they express concerns regarding the way the scientific and technological achievements are used. They are sceptical towards scientists whom they believe are defenders of certain economic interests, especially after the way scientists were presented through the media after the H1N1 pandemic. School science education has not succeeded in creating a clear picture of the scientific process as students do not understand that science progresses mostly through scientific disputes. In addition, the mass media promote such misconceptions.