International Journal of Education and Teaching Zone
Vol. 5 No. 2 (2026): June 2026 Edition

Teachers’ Conceptions of Electromagnetic Radiation in Mobile and Wireless Technologies: The Role of Teaching Specialization and Gender

Leonidas Gavrilas (University of Ioannina)
Marianna–Sotiria Papanikolaou (University of Ioannina)
Konstantinos Kotsis (University of Ioannina)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jun 2026

Abstract

Electromagnetic radiation is a fundamental scientific concept encountered daily through mobile phones, wireless networks, and other technologies. However, it is often mistakenly associated with radioactivity and health risks, leading to widespread misconceptions. This study investigated Greek teachers’ conceptions of electromagnetic radiation in mobile and wireless technologies, examining differences by teaching specialization and gender. A quantitative survey of 455 teachers from four specialization groups used ten dichotomously scored items to assess understanding of electromagnetic radiation, radioactivity, emissions from everyday technologies, and the specific absorption rate (SAR). The total score showed acceptable internal consistency for exploratory use (Cronbach’s α = .713). The mean correctness score was 40.99% (SD = 24.24), indicating substantial variability across items. In the bivariate analysis, men scored higher than women, t(453) = 5.72, p < .001. However, in the unbalanced two-way ANOVA model, the gender effect was not statistically detectable when teaching specialization and the gender-by-specialization structure of the sample were included, F(1, 447) = 0.14, p = .708, whereas specialization remained significant, F(3, 447) = 18.57, p < .001. Computer Science and Physics teachers outperformed those in Primary and Preschool Education. The findings underscore the need for teacher education to strengthen understanding of the distinctions between electromagnetic radiation and radioactivity, emissions from mobile and wireless technologies, and the specific absorption rate (SAR).

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

ijetz

Publisher

Subject

Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Mathematics Social Sciences Other

Description

International Journal of Education and Teaching Zone (IJETZ) is a double-blind peer-reviewed and open-access journal on Education and teacher training. The focus of this journal is to discuss issues of education and teacher training in countries around the world, both in public educational ...