Vivências pedagógicas no clube de ciências do CES/UFCG: promovendo a educação científica no ensino de biologia através de metodologias ativas.

Abstract

Extension projects play a fundamental role in the education of university students, as well as promoting an exchange of experiences between the academic environment and the community through the activities developed. In this sense, this work reports the activities developed during the development of the extension project “CES Science Club: a space for socialization, integrating scientific education and teacher training”, related to the area of ​​Biology, from June to December 2024 at the Federal University of Campina Grande, Cuité-PB campus. The project arose from the need to bring Science/Biology teaching closer to the sociocultural reality of basic education students, promoting the popularization of science and the formation of a critical conscience through active teaching methodologies. The target audience included students from the basic education network of the Curimataú microregion of Paraíba, with the support of students from the Bachelor's Degree in Biological Sciences at CES/UFCG, who worked on extension actions. The initiative was based on a qualitative approach, of a descriptive and exploratory nature, and included activities such as pedagogical workshops, production of teaching materials, educational games, themed exhibitions, lectures, ecological trails, technical visits and actions at science fairs. The highlight was the valorization of the Caatinga biome, as a regional natural heritage, through the promotion of environmental education and the demystification of historically marginalized animals, such as snakes, bats and owls. In addition, educational activities focused on the region's fauna and flora were carried out, using visual, auditory and tactile resources, card games, RPGs and group dynamics. The activities were organized based on the principles of active methodologies, with a focus on meaningful learning and student leadership. The project also articulated academic and popular knowledge, integrating theory and practice, which favored both the development of teaching skills of undergraduate students and the scientific literacy of basic education students. At the end of the project, there was significant engagement from the target audience, as well as the strengthening of the bond between the university and the school community in the region. The actions had a positive impact on students’ perception of the social role of biologists, encouraging scientific vocations and interest in undergraduate courses. In this sense, the Science Club has established itself as a space for teacher training and innovative pedagogical experience, capable of contributing to the improvement of Science/Biology teaching and the construction of a more critical, participatory education that is committed to contemporary socio-environmental challenges. The work reaffirms the transformative role of university extension projects as instruments for bringing the university and the target audience closer together.