The preliminary conceptions, the traditional resources and digital technologies in teaching of astronomy

Abstract

 Despite being part of the official documents astronomy is rarely taught adequately in basic education. Digital technologies are commonly used by youth, but neglected by the majority of teachers. In this sense, a survey with the aim of pointing out the potential use of digital technologies in teaching astronomy was developed. An advanced course in astronomy was offered for participants with the goal to make them understand astronomical phenomena. The following steps were to betaken: i) analysis of the pedagogical projects (PPC) of the licenciates at the Federal Institution of the North of Minas Gerais (IFNMG); ii) analysis of students' preconceptions about astronomy and digital technologies; iii) preparation of the course; iv) application of the education proposal. The test consisted of thirty-two students of Physics, Mathematics and Biological Sciences and was conducted with the qualitative and quantitative methodology, combined with a content analysis. The results indicated that in the IFNMG only the licenciate-course in Physics includes astronomy content diluted in various subjects of the curriculum; the rates of students’ prior knowledge in relation to astronomy was low; an evidence of meaning full earning of the concepts related to astronomy, and of viability of resource use involving digital technologies in the Teaching of astronomy.