A neuroscience-based methodology to identify the implicit associations of brazilian science teachers towards nuclear technology

Abstract

Science, technology, and innovation play an essential role in helping countries increase the quality of life they offer their citizens. Since the discovery of nuclear fission in the 30s, the peaceful applications of nuclear technology have benefited several fields. Improved crops, preservation of food, health, environment protection and a stable supply of energy can be cited as contributions of nuclear technology for global wellbeing. Despite all benefits that result from the peaceful uses of nuclear technology, it is still addressed with prejudice. Prejudices may be explicit (conscious) or implicit (unconscious). Either explicit or implicit, prejudices interfere with individuals’ attitudes. This paper aims to assess the implicit associations of Brazilian science teachers towards nuclear technology by administering the Implicit Association Test (IAT). Identifying their implicit associations will contribute for the understanding of prejudices that may interfere with their teaching. A pretest with nuclear specialists was administered to check the consistency of the IAT. Subsequently, it was administered to the science teachers. The results of the IAT demonstrated more positive associations towards oil. The next step consists of proposing a methodology to change implicit associations of Brazilian science teachers towards nuclear technology.