Search

In this study, students' misconceptions about the ozone layer were investigated, looking specifically at the effect internet-based media has on the formation of these misconceptions. Quantitative and qualitative research approaches were used to perform the research. As part of the quantitative portion of the research, the descriptive survey method, which involved a questionnaire featuring items about the ozone layer, was used to gather data. The study surveyed 95 pre-service chemistry teachers and 363 high school students. In the qualitative portion of the research, 219 local websites related to the ozone layer were analyzed. Results from this analysis showed that despite their different grade levels, both high school students and university students had similar misconceptions. Furthermore, it was found that the analyzed websites either included a good deal of information that was incompatible with scientific models or that encouraged misconceptions.