A study on microbiological literacy in Indonesia: the influencing factors

Purpose This research aims to explore the relationships between various variables by examining the mediating effects of knowledge, attitude, and skills on microbiological literacy. Design/methodology/approach The study employed purposive sampling, targeting respondents as university students and working adults. An online questionnaire was distributed to 213 respondents across Indonesia. Data analysis was conducted using structural equation modeling (SEM) with the assistance of Jeffrey’s Amazing Statistics Program. Findings The knowledge construct significantly influenced the attitude construct, while the skill construct did not show a direct significant impact. However, there was a significant indirect relationship when considering the pathway through the knowledge construct. The indicators used in this model exhibited significant factor loadings, indicating good measurement validity and reliability. Additionally, this research can extend the analysis to determine if the relationships identified in the SEM model are consistent across various population subgroups in measuring microbiological literacy. Research limitations/implications More and comparable research is required to test the consistency of the SEM model because it may yield different results depending on how consistent it is in different population subgroups. Practical implications By elucidating the critical factors influencing microbiological literacy, this study provides valuable insights for educational strategies and public health policies aimed at improving understanding and behavior towards microorganisms in Indonesia. Originality/value Model performance is measured experimentally for accuracy and efficiency as a means of validation. To forecast the link between variables in the measurement aspects of Indonesian microbiology literacy, we used a structural equation model.