12 pages., via online journal., This descriptive survey research was undertaken to design appropriate programs
for the creation of a positive perception of nanotechnology among their
intended beneficiaries. In order to do that, the factors affecting positive
perceptions were defined. A stratified random sample of 278 science board
members was selected out of 984 researchers who were working in 22 National
Agricultural Research Institutions (NARIs). Data were collected by using a
mailed questionnaire. The descriptive results revealed that more than half
of the respondents had “low” or “very low” familiarity with nanotechnology.
Regression analysis indicated that the perceptions of Iranian NARI Science
Board Members towards nanotechnology were explained by three variables:
the level of their familiarity with emerging applications of nanotechnology in
agriculture, the level of their familiarity with nanotechnology and their work
experiences. The findings of this study can contribute to a better understanding
of the present situation of the development of nanotechnology and the planning
of appropriate programs for creating a positive perception of nanotechnology.
