A confecção e aplicação de materiais didáticos de baixo custo para o ensino da matemática em uma turma do ensino médio

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the contributions of creating and using low-cost educational materials—experimentally exploring classroom topics—with a third-year high school class in the Community Health Agent technical program at the Colégio Técnico de Floriano. Focusing on creation and experimentation helped make acquiring this knowledge more engaging for the adolescents. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining qualitative research (observations made during the introduction of the subject matter) with quantitative research (using numerical data for analysis and interpretation). In terms of research type, it was an action research study involving the students and resulting in the implementation of a solution. The methodological process included an initial assessment, interactive lectures, the construction of educational materials, field classes, and the analysis and discussion of the data obtained. The results demonstrated active student participation; of the 31 students who consented to take part, 25 attended the first experiment, 20 the second, and 25 the third. It was observed that the participating students acquired the necessary skills and a sufficient level of knowledge regarding the mass-spring system, the fundamental principle of dynamics, and trigonometry. The study indicated an improvement in student performance—specifically in mathematical literacy—regarding the content covered in the practical activities. Finally, an educational product was developed containing a didactic sequence to guide teachers interested in this methodology.