Knowledge of elementary and high school students about experimental animal research

Abstract

Experimental research with the use of animal models to represent a specific reality is a target of criticism by the population. This study analyzed the knowledge of elementary and high school students on experimental/animal research methods, official ethical guidelines/laws, and regulatory institutions. In total, 35 students answered an informative questionnaire with objective questions about the subject. Only 18 students (Group 1), attended a lecture on the subject. The questionnaire was reapplied to all 35 students. The analysis of the first questionnaire round showed rejection by 51.4% of the students toward the methods used in experimental research. Significant changes in answer patterns between the first and second evaluations were observed, with a decrease in the number of students who strongly disagree with the methods used in experimental research in Group 1 (38.8%) compared to Group 2 (88.2%). These data suggest that educational activities could increase the acceptance of experimental research by the community.