The aim of this ongoing study is to learn more about attitudes towards the issues of Wi-Fi radiation in schools, both from the media and parents’ perspective. To achieve this goal, the study utilizes complementing methods: analysis of news items, social media discussions and TV programs to learn about the different ways non-ionizing radiation is presented, debated and framed in the public.
Wi-Fi radiation is a type of radio frequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) that refers to the transfer of energy by radio waves. Nowadays, exposure to RF radiation is widespread including wireless internet connection (Wi-Fi) routers and cell phones. The proliferation of devices emitting RF radiation has entailed some public and media-generated controversy, although scientific evidence has not pointed to the existence of risk. Using the theoretical perspectives of science literacy, public engagement with science and science media literacy this projects looks at public engagement with the socio-scientific issue of Wi-Fi in schools.
Link to information in Hebrew about non ionizing radiation