Biotechnology: An Assessment Of Agricultural Science Teachers' Knowledge And Attitudes

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore agricultural science teachers' knowledge levels and attitudes toward biotechnology topics. The average agricultural science teacher in this study was a 37-year-old male who had taught for 12 years. He had a bachelor's degree and had lived or worked on a farm or ranch. He had not attended biotechnology-related workshops or classes since he graduated from college. Agricultural science teachers in the current study had some knowledge of biotechnology. However, great variation existed between specific topics. Teachers were most knowledgeable about animal reproduction and least knowledgeable about electrophoresis and bioremediation. Significant relationships were found between teachers' self-perceived knowledge levels of specific biotechnology topics and the likelihood that the topic was taught in the classroom. Agricultural science teachers had favorable attitudes toward biotechnology. A low positive relationship existed between agricultural science teachers' knowledge and attitudes toward biotechnology. When comparing teachers based on experience (those with less than 15 years versus those with 15 or more years) results indicated no differences in knowledge and attitudes.