Examining the knowledge, attitudes and risk perceptions of science and classroom teacher candidates regarding GMO foods

In this study, Eastern and 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th year science and primary school teacher candidates studying at universities in Southeastern Anatolia, 3rd and 4th grade science and primary school teacher candidates studying at universities in the Southeastern The level of knowledge about foods containing Modified Organisms (GMO), attitudes and risk perceptions were analysed. In the research, pre-service teachers' scientific knowledge levels of perceptions towards genetic modification technologies, attitudes and risk perceptions professional identity and commitment to ethical values in line with the purpose of this study. In line with this purpose GMO Foods Knowledge Test, Attitude Scale towards GMO Foods for pre-service teachers and the Scale of Risk Perception towards GMO Foods online and the data obtained were analysed. Findings of the study, genetic modification as a recognised technology in both groups of pre-service teachers and have a high level of familiarity with these technologies shows. However, prospective science teachers' views on the environmental and a more critical and cautious approach to health impacts have the same level of knowledge and skills. Classroom teaching candidates, on the other hand more optimistic attitude towards the technologies, and that GMOs are an environmental perceived the harms and health risks lower. However, the moral appropriateness of genetic modification of classroom teaching candidates They were found to have more ethical concerns about the subject. Conclusion As a result, pre-service science teachers were able to analyse genetics from a more scientific perspective. modification, while classroom teaching candidates approached social and ethical modification. more focussed on values. The study has shown that there is a development of training programmes and teacher candidates' knowledge in this field and offers suggestions for increasing the level of awareness. Key Words: GMO Foods, Science and Classroom Teacher Candidates, Knowledge, Attitude, Risk Perceptions