Simulações PhET e aprendizagem baseada em problemas (PBL): conectando o mundo real ao ensino de matemática na Educação de Jovens e Adultos-EJA

Abstract

The present study aimed to investigate how the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) methodology can be applied to the teaching of Mathematics in Youth and Adult Education (EJA) – together with digital resources such as PhET simulations - with the aim of connecting the concepts applied in the classroom to real situations and students' daily lives. The topic chosen for the development of the research was to question students from the Antonio Dias Lima State School about why the water at the laboratory beach, located in Angra dos Reis/RJ, is warmer than that of other neighboring beaches. To this end, a survey was conducted with regular high school and EJA students from this school. The results indicated that a large portion of the students were unaware of the causes of this phenomenon or, those who claimed to know, in fact deduced it. This highlighted the relevance of introducing topics closer to the reality of these students in the teaching process. The research also revealed that the use of digital technologies, such as simulations and animations, and the application of active methodologies, such as PBL, can enhance learning, making it more dynamic and engaging. At the end of the work, a structured class based on PBL was proposed, with the aim of engaging students in solving the presented problem. It is expected that, with the implementation of this methodology, students will not only develop investigative and problem-solving skills, but will also develop an interest in the subject of mathematics, because, after the presentation to them, it was explained how mathematics is involved in each step of the energy production process. It is also expected that they will broaden their understanding of important topics such as electricity generation, the operation of nuclear power plants and environmental impacts.