A Study on the Differences of View on Pseudo-Science by Religion of Elementary School Students

Authors

  • Yungueong Kim Author
  • Youngseok Jhun Author
  • Youngjoon Shin Author

Keywords:

pseudo-science, astrology, prophecy, allusion, magic arts, supernatural phenomena, religion

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the perception of elementary school students about pseudo science and the differences of view on pseudo-science among groups of religion. The subjects in this study were 242 fifth graders and 200 sixth graders, who were tested to figure out their view of pseudo-science. The findings of the study were as follows. First, as for their awareness of pseudo science, they generally took a dismal view of the four areas of pseudo-science, including astrology, allusion, magic arts and supernatural phenomena, and there was little change in their view even though they moved up to a higher grade. It indicated that despite continuous science learning, their cognitive pattern remained unchanged. And, Elementary students' religion exerted an influence on their awareness of the four areas of pseudo-science. Specially, Buddhists are more permissive views than other religion groups.

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Published

2008-10-31