Finnish University Students’ Sociocultural Experiences and Views of Quantum Physics

Abstract

Quantum physics is increasingly visible in the news, movies, and popular media. It will shape our future, but do university students notice or care about it? Here, we explore 270 Finnish university STEM and non-STEM students’ everyday experiences (past), relevance perceptions (present), and study interests (future) of quantum physics via questionnaire-based research. We find that a student’s field of study influences neither noticing the word “quantum” in their free time nor perceiving it as relevant to society and everyday life. Students express moderate interest in studying various quantum physics topics, although they commonly consider them important for others, not themselves. By revealing students’ perceptions, preferences, and motivations, these results help customize quantum physics education and respond to diverse needs.