Atlas de imagens astronômicas para o ensino de física

Abstract

Education in Brazil is undergoing a process of transformation. In Physics teaching, students often show disinterest in traditional types of lessons, making it challenging for teachers to engage them and achieve meaningful learning outcomes. This work addresses the efficiency of space telescope astronomical images in overcoming these challenges and making the learning process more meaningful. The use of astronomical images, organized within the pedagogical structure of an “Atlas of Astronomical Images” can stimulate student’s; interest and thus facilitate the understanding of Physics concepts. The primary objective is to investigate the efficiency of the Atlas as a teaching tool, connecting astronomical phenomena to high school level Physics. To achieve this goal the Atlas is aligned with the competencies and skills outlined in the BNCC (Brazilian National Common Core Curriculum) within the area of Natural Sciences, aiming to promote the analysis of cosmic phenomena, the use of scientific models, and problem-solving techniques involving the relevant content. Additionally, by integrating Astronomy and Physics, the material can foster investigative and interdisciplinary skills as specified in the national curriculum. The Atlas structure was developed based on the Three Pedagogical Moments framework by Delizoicov, Angotti, and Marta Pernambuco (2002). Each chapter begins with a problematization (1st moment), linking Physics concepts related to the astronomical image (2nd moment), and proposes practical activities that apply the acquired knowledge in real-world contexts (3rd moment). The research results indicated that the use of the Atlas significantly increased student interest and engagement, facilitating the comprehension of complex concepts and promoting a meaningful learning. Most students and teachers reported that the astronomical images helped to contextualize the Physics concepts, making the lessons more dynamic and engaging. We conclude hat the Atlas can be an innovative tool for teaching Physics, offering a meaningful, contextualized, and curriculum-aligned approach.