The effects of nuclear power education for elementary, middle, and high school students in Korea

Abstract

After a 45-minute theory class on nuclear power generation and a 45-minute practical class on measuring radiation, the level of awareness and attitudes regarding nuclear energy (necessity, safety, information acquirement, and subjective knowledge) increased with statistical significance. The research process was made up of four steps: Step 1, a research plan; Step 2, a pre-education survey investigation; Step 3, education; and Step 4, a post-education survey investigation. The proportion of students with a positive awareness level regarding the development of nuclear energy was 33.2% (1,128 students) before education and 68.4% (2,151 students) after education. The proportion of students with a negative awareness level was 66.8% (2,269 students) before education and 31.6% (996 students) after education. Although this was a short class, it demonstrated that education should be continuously provided for the students on whom it had major effects. Those students on whom education had fewer effects should be provided with field trips related to nuclear energy or should experience medical radiation. Better results of nuclear energy classes can be anticipated in the future with the implementation of such strategies.

Keywords: Nuclear power, education, student, school, effect, radiation, communication