Mulheres no curso de Licenciatura em Física do IFPI: percepção e experiências de docentes e discentes

Abstract

A recent survey carried out by IBGE shows that the number of women entering higher education is already greater than the number of men. However, the low female representation within the area of exact sciences is still a very challenging scenario, especially those related to science and technology, especially in the fields of physical sciences and engineering. In this context, the present work sought to raise the profile of teachers and students within the Physics Degree course offered by the seven campi of the Federal Institute of Piauí - IFPI. Furthermore, the research in question proposes to analyze and reflect on the main challenges these women face throughout the course through the application of questionnaires to understand the reality they experience. The methodological procedure started from mapping the distribution of teachers and students by sex in Physics Degree courses offered in seven campi of IFPI throughout Piauí state (Angical, Corrente, Oeiras, Parnaíba, Picos, São Raimundo Nonato and Teresina-Central). In this context, this study aims to explore, through questionnaires, the current situation of women who chose physics as profession, whether students or teachers, to highlight their perceptions and experiences within the Physics course. Finally, although it is impossible to outline a single profile for teachers/students, this study reveals its importance by exposing the trajectory of these women, explaining gender inequality or discrimination in the academic environment. The research provides a comprehensive and detailed understanding of the challenges and perspectives of women in the Physics Degree at IFPI, in addition to identifying obstacles, offering insights for policies and practices that promote gender equality, encourage retention in the field, and inspire future generations of scientists. The study highlights problems and opportunities to create a more inclusive and diverse environment in Physics.