HeLioS - Health Literacy originates in Science

Coordinator: Mag. Dr. Irene Frischauf, MLBT (Johannes Kepler University Linz) Additional participants: Benjamin Zwirzitz, MSc (University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna) Priv.-Doz. Dr. MMag. Clemens Drenowatz (University of Education Upper Austria) Priv.-Doz. Mag. Dr. Katharina Hirschenhauser (University of Education Upper Austria) In a recent assessment of health literacy at JKU, School of Education, a significant proportion of students in education (on their way to become biology teachers) scored low (i.e. ~40% misconceptions and/or missing knowledge). These misconceptions and gaps in knowledge are then passed on from teachers to students later in their careers. Within the present #Connecting Minds Workshop proposal we established a collaborative, trans-disciplinary one health approach connecting scientific researchers, students, teachers and pupils. Although scientific research continuously uncovers the interconnections between our immune system, the microbiome, dietics and physical activity, a collaborative, trans-disciplinary one health approach is still needed. Moreover, information provided by various outlets concerning topics of current and social relevance is often segregated and highly confusing for lay people. This proposal should encourage critical thinking by combining and transferring scientific and social knowledge to students, teachers and pupils. The overall project aim is to consolidate and improve the scientific and health literacy of pupils, students and biology teachers. Our team of researchers intends to offer scientific input from different exemplary fields of research on immune function and health (including physical activity, dietetics, microbiome and Ca2+-signalling in health and disease). Therefore, we propose (a) to investigate the intersections of findings by the different disciplines working with health issues, (b) to unravel common beliefs and misconceptions of pupils, students and biology teachers and (c) to address and communicate these issues at different levels of the education system. The project will focus on the role of teachers in mediating complex health-related topics as mediators of a sustainable and multiplying learning effect across generations.