Formigas cooperativas ou vespas solitárias? A experiência de um professor em um clube de biologia de insetos sob a luz da aprendizagem cooperativa

Abstract

The educational structure in Brazil is currently based on the traditional and expository teaching method. Within this context, new approaches are needed that seek to expand the spectrum of qualities to be developed in a student. An informal teaching space, such as a Biology Club, with the use of Cooperative Learning methods, propose a new approach to biological content, in the context of this research, the study of insects, as well as an alternative way to develop abilities and social skills, such as cooperation and responsibility, in their students. Thus, the general objective of this work was to narrate the experience as a teacher in a biology club using cooperative learning in the study of insects, also seeking to identify, through specific objectives, the students' opinion about the Biology Club and the format in which it occurred; Cooperative Learning and its contribution to learning about insects; and their perception of insects after classes at the Biology Club. A qualitative, descriptive, reflexive, and analytical research was carried out, in the format of an experience report, based on the researcher's observations and a questionnaire applied to participating students. The research was carried out during the activities of the Escola do PRECE, on the premises of the State School of Professional Education (EEEP) Alan Pinho Tabosa, in Pentecoste-CE, and took place between May and July 2022. The work was carried out in a group with forty students from 12 to 15 years old. It was possible to infer that: the classes in the club format and the Cooperative Learning methodology had a positive impact on the way students interact with each other, making them, from the socialization and sharing of knowledge obtained, more cooperative individuals within the classroom, so that it was also possible to generate a greater interest in the study of insects.