Ações educativas sobre microscopia com estudantes do Ensino Fundamental: um relato de experiência

Abstract

Who has never been enchanted by seeing a microscope and imagining the universe unveiled by it? The creation of this instrument enabled the elaboration of theories that are still fundamental for Biology today. However, due to several limitations, the experience of most students in Basic Education with this instrument is unsatisfactory. Consequently, interest in scientific activities is negatively affected, requiring actions that encourage them. Aiming to popularize Science and strengthen knowledge about microscopy, outreach activities were carried out with elementary school students from a state public school located in Camaragibe (Pernambuco). The educational intervention consisted of: a) retrieval of prior knowledge; b) interactive lecture using optical and digital microscope models; c) workshop on optical microscope manipulation and making of a handcrafted microscope model; d) discussion and socialization of knowledge. In general, the pedagogical strategies using microscopy made the learned content more interesting and meaningful, awakening the playful, creative, curious, reflective and investigative side of the public. They not only contributed to the expansion of knowledge about microscopy and helped to adjust alternative conceptions, but they also allowed the development of additional scientific skills, so necessary for the mobilization of educational competences. Furthermore, microscopy proved to be a potential resource for students in the multiplication of knowledge in their community.