Individuals’ perceptions of science as a source of superior knowledge can predict the likelihood of mask wearing during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a new study led by University of Maine psychology researchers.
Doctoral students Morgan Stosic and Shelby Helwig, and assistant professor Mollie Ruben examined whether belief in science (BIS), a construct that measures the value individuals assign to scientific information, can predict mask wearing behavior and, if so, whether the relationship is mediated by belief in the effectiveness of face masks in reducing the transmission of COVID-19. Their findings were published in the journal Personality and Individual Differences.
Texas Tech grad students awarded National Science Foundation’s Graduate Research Fellowship
For A-J Media
Four graduate students from Texas Tech University were awarded fellowships from the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowships Program (GRFP) while three others were named honorable mentions.
According to the NSF’s website, the GRFP recognizes and supports outstanding graduate students in NSF-supported STEM disciplines who pursue research-based master’s and doctoral degrees at accredited U.S. institutions. The five-year fellowship includes three years of financial support with an annual stipend of $34,000 and a cost-of-education allowance of $12,000 to the institution.
“These are the most prestigious fellowships awarded in basic science and engineering in the U.S.,” said Mark Sheridan, dean of the Graduate School at Texas Tech. “The award is a tremendous honor that recognizes the academic accomplishments of these students as well as