TOMATES ESPACIAIS E ENSINO DE CIÊNCIAS: Relato de uma Experiência STEM em Escolas Públicas
Abstract
This paper presents an account of a collaborative educational initiative between the Jaú-SP Education Directorate, the Jahu Faculty of Technology, and the Stem Early High School (USA). The project, called "Tomatosphere," involved approximately 300 elementary, middle, and high school students in investigating the effects of the space environment on tomato seed germination through a controlled experiment. The main objective was to develop scientific investigation skills in elementary and high school students from selected public schools in Jaú-SP and the surrounding region, by observing the effects of the space environment on tomato seed germination, and to analyze teachers' perceptions of student engagement and skill development. The methodology consisted of sending envelopes containing tomato seeds to the participating schools, and the evaluation of student involvement was conducted through a questionnaire administered to the teachers who participated in the experiment. The collected data revealed a high level of engagement (87.5%) and significant development of scientific thinking among the students. Furthermore, the experience provided students with opportunities to formulate hypotheses and analyze data, reinforcing the importance of interdisciplinarity and hands-on experimentation in science education.
Copyright (c) 2025 Célio Favoni, Aparecida Maria Zem Lopes, Milton Lima, Alessandro Lameiro Brancão (Autor)
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