Survey on COVID-19 : Related Behaviors and Opinions

Abstract

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, preventative safety measures (e.g., mask-wearing, hand washing, social distancing) have become commonplace, although with varied acceptance. In addition, there have been profound changes in social interaction and learning environments. We investigated UWEC students’ attitudes and behaviors regarding safety measures; partying and other social behavior; and online vs. in-person instruction. Doherty et al. (2020) found that Democrats were more concerned than Republicans about COVID-19. We hypothesized that UWEC students who are more politically liberal (vs. conservative) likewise would be more supportive of safety measures (e.g., mask wearing) and less inclined to engage in risky social behavior. Additionally, we hypothesized that attitudes toward online learning would be more favorable since the pandemic (vs. before).