Knowledge and Sources of Information on COVID-19-Related Misconceptions among Chemistry Undergraduates
Abstract
Along with the problem of the COVID-19 pandemic, the world also faces a problem with misconceptions. These speculations can worsen the situation and wreak havoc on decisions made by the public. This study investigated the level of knowledge of Chemistry undergraduates on COVID-19-related misconceptions. A total of 153 undergraduates participated in the survey. Analysis revealed that the common misconceptions among undergraduates are the need to disinfect surfaces of food packaging, the transmissibility of the SARS-CoV-2 virus through the water while swimming, the need for quarantine for live animals imported from countries with a high prevalence of COVID-19 and getting infected through touching a communal bottle of alcohol-based sanitizer. Results also showed that the undergraduates mainly rely on internet browsing as their source of information about the COVID-19 pandemic. There are 3 students who obtained a score of less than 50% of the total points, thereby having poor knowledge regarding COVID-19. On the other hand, 55 students obtained a score between 50% to 75% of the total points, thereby having a moderate level of knowledge regarding COVID-19. Lastly, 95 students obtained a score above 75% of the total points, having good knowledge regarding COVID-19. Additionally, the usual way for students to address the misconceptions surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic is by depending on reliable sources and research.
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