Avaliação integrativa da aceitação das teorias evolucionistas e níveis de conhecimento de licenciandos em ciências biológicas do IFPI, campus Teresina Central

Abstract

Evolution is widely recognized in various official documents as the central pillar of life sciences. In other words, for a thorough understanding of the functioning of living organisms, mastery of these evolutionary mechanisms is indispensable. However, the teaching of this subject faces several obstacles, highlighting the urgent need for appropriate training of biology teachers to elucidate evolutionary concepts. In this context, the present study aimed to investigate the level of acceptance and understanding of evolutionary theories among students enrolled in the undergraduate biology education program at the Federal Institute of Piauí (IFPI). To achieve this objective, a questionnaire consisting of 20 items was administered, where participants expressed their positions on statements related to evolutionary theories. Additionally, 21 questions were included to assess the level of knowledge of the social actors involved. The analysis of the results allowed for the identification of the relationship between these two factors, providing insights into the acceptance and understanding of evolutionary theories by students. The data obtained revealed that, within the IFPI, the teacher education program in Biological Sciences is aligned with the fundamental concepts and principles of the theory of biological evolution. This result suggests an effective pedagogical approach in providing a solid and well-founded understanding of evolution, thereby contributing to the training of qualified professionals in the field of biological sciences.