The Values that Strengthen us Against Pandemics According to Social Studies Teacher Candidates: the Case of Covid-19

Abstract

This study aims to determine the values that individuals bring forward in the face of global epidemics such as Covid-19 and giving them the strength to resist these epidemics. The study was carried out in a case study design based on the qualitative research method. The study group of the research consists of 185 social studies teacher candidates from different classes. An interview form consisting of three questions created in line with the purpose of the study was used as a data collection tool. Due to the pandemic conditions, the interview form was applied to the participants through Microsoft Forms and the data obtained were analyzed using thematic analysis. This study concludes by suggesting that the values that give the individuals the most strength include the belief in national unity and solidarity, being clean, looking at the future with hope, patience, keeping family ties strong, belief in social aid and solidarity, fulfilling the religious requirements, praying and being grateful. Findings show that individuals should emphasize values such as responsibility, empathy, solidarity, respect, and sensitivity in the epidemic environment; society should act together in solidarity and the state should take more responsibility for the safety and needs of the public. The results also indicate that in a pandemic environment, individuals should use social media with the purposes of spending time in a qualified manner, communicating, accessing correct information, and sharing the information for the benefit of the society. All in all, it has been concluded that under extraordinary conditions, such as global epidemics, individuals, society and the state should take more responsibility based on traditional values and use social media more consciously in line with these values. © 2021 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.