Effect of video presentations on knowledge and public attitudes toward radioactive waste storage

Abstract

A study was conducted to determine whether short video presentations of facts about radiation and WIPP (Waste Isolation Pilot Plant) and WIPP transportation would increase knowledge and change attitudes regarding the storage of radioactive waste; and (2) to determine the effect of various audio and visual techniques employed in the video presentations on knowledge acquisition and opinion. Changes in knowledge and attitudes toward radioactive waste and the WIPP produced by viewing three video presentations have been measured by showing the tapes to selected viewing groups. The first video presents facts about natural radioactivity; the second presents facts about WIPP; and the third presents facts about the transporting of waste to WIPP. Each video is approximately four minutes long. These initial studies have demonstrated that four-minutes-long videos can change public knowledge and opinion, and that these changes can be measured and quantified.<>