The transversal subject health and science teaching: social representations of teachers about intestinal parasites

Abstract

The parasitic infections represent a serious public health problem. School children are the most affected by intestinal parasites. In order to make happen planned and specific interventions for prevention of intestinal parasites in school it is important to understand the representations of teachers on the subject. So, the research aimed to discuss the issue of intestinal parasites and their connections with the teaching of science. Four teachers participated in the investigation. To obtain the social representations of health, intestinal parasites and science teaching semi-structured interviews were conducted in the form of focus group. The representations expressed inform that teachers possess scientific knowledge on the subject. However, many ideas and perceptions about transmission and prevention of intestinal parasites are structured around knowledge of common sense which should be questioned and problematized. We must recognize and value the school as a health agency, as well as the role of teachers as promoters of this action.