The research into the electromagnetic radiation of mobile phones and wireless networks is relatively small, although they are some of the devices that people use daily. The study aimed to investigate the attitudes and behaviors of college students about electromagnetic radiation from mobile phones and wireless networks, as well as to examine the impact of the curricula of the university departments in which they study. The study involved 619 students from six different university departments. Data collection was performed using a closed-ended questionnaire. The general conclusion of the research was that students have incomplete knowledge about the electromagnetic radiation emitted by mobile phones and wireless networks, while at the same time they have a negative attitude and consider it dangerous to the health of living organisms. However, their behaviors regarding the protection of their health do not match with the attitudes they have formed, while in the majority they are significantly related to the university department in which they study.

The devices that people use every day, such as mobile phones and wireless networks, emit electromagnetic waves in the radio frequency range. The widespread use of these devices, as well as the change in people’s social behavior, have dramatically increased their exposure to electromagnetic radiation. Due to the rapid increase of young people users, public health officials and the scientific community are showing particular interest in the possible effects of electromagnetic radiation on human health. Many researchers express strong concerns about the effects of exposure to electromagnetic radiation, as it can have a serious impact on physical, cognitive, and social health. This study focused on self-reported health problems after excessive talking time on mobile phones of 619 (n=619) University students of both genders, in the age group of 18-24 years were randomly selected. The data was collected using a close-ended questionnaire. Headache was found to be the most frequently reported symptom (69%) followed by pressure in the head (38.8%). In most self-reported health problems no correlation was found between the genders. Female students tend to talk more on their mobile phones, and it was found that this extensive use was associated with the declaration of more self-reported health problems. The results of this study do not leave us any room for complacency, especially when we talk about health issues, and continuous research is needed to protect people’s health. In addition, modern education should provide the necessary knowledge to students, but also take care of the development of the critical thinking of future citizens, so that they can make the most appropriate decisions for their health.

The research on the knowledge and perceptions of electromagnetic radiation among teachers who will teach these topics in primary and secondary education is relatively limited. According to existing literature, electromagnetic radiation is a challenging and complex concept for students to comprehend. Despite the widespread use of radiation-emitting devices like cell phones and wireless networks, the misuse of the term “radiation” has resulted in various misconceptions. This study aimed to examine the elementary understanding of electromagnetic radiation and its application in wireless technologies among prospective primary and secondary education teachers from different specialties. 427 pre-service teachers participated in the survey, and the data was gathered through a closed questionnaire. The study’s overall conclusion was that teachers’ knowledge regarding electromagnetic radiation was insufficient. The curricula of their departments, their interests in high school courses, and their gender significantly affect their understanding of electromagnetic radiation and its application to wireless technologies.