Scientific and technological awareness has been increasing among the Chinese people, according to a survey released on Sunday.

The survey by the Chinese Association for Science and Technology (CAST) reveals that people with basic science and technology knowledge account for 2.25 percent of the total population of 1.3 billion, compared to 1.6 percent in 2005 when a similar survey was last conducted.

The survey covers 10,080 people, aged between 18 and 69, from 31 provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities on the Chinese mainland.

Carried out from December 2007 to February 2008, the survey indicates 18.4 percent of the Chinese people understood scientific terms, 33.5 percent understood scientific methods and 59.4 percent understood the relation between science and society.

The respondents held that teachers, scientists and doctors are the most respected professionals and 40.1 percent of the parents hoped their children would become scientists.

As to the relation between scientific development and human resources, 82.8 percent of the respondents agree that "stimulating children's interest in science and technology will be conducive to the development of China's talents."

The Chinese people also have high expectations on future development of science and technology. The survey says that 81.9 percent of the respondents believe modern science and technology will bring the offspings more opportunities for development.

(Xinhua News Agency November 17, 2008)