The influence of the mass media on Australian primary students' understandings of genes and DNA
PhD Thesis
Title | The influence of the mass media on Australian primary students' understandings of genes and DNA |
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Type | PhD Thesis |
Authors | |
Author | Donovan, Jennifer |
Supervisor | Winthrop Professor Grady Venville |
Institution of Origin | University of Western Australia |
Qualification Name | Doctor of Philosophy |
Number of Pages | 330 |
Year | 2014 |
Abstract | The research purpose was to investigate the influence of the mass media on 10-12 year olds' understandings of genes and DNA. Data were collected by media usage questionnaires (N=141) and genetics understandings interviews (n=62). Genetics content of the media was critically reviewed. Participants used media 5 hr/day, mostly television including crime shows. Children's understandings paralleled their media exposure, knowing more about DNA's use for crime-solving than DNA biology. More students knew of DNA than genes; and half believed DNA is only in forensic body parts. Primary schools could capitalize on students' interest to introduce fundamental genetics before misconceptions become entrenched. |
Keywords | mass media; primary students; genes; DNA; crime show effect |
ANZSRC Field of Research 2020 | 360505. Screen media |
390113. Science, technology and engineering curriculum and pedagogy | |
390304. Primary education | |
Byline Affiliations | University of Western Australia |
https://research.usq.edu.au/item/q283x/the-influence-of-the-mass-media-on-australian-primary-students-understandings-of-genes-and-dna
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