Investigative practices in teaching of Microbiology: a methodological proposal for research initiation

Abstract

This article reports a research that aimed to develop an educational product intended for microbiology teaching for degree in Biological Sciences: a so-called education program "Investigative Practices in Microbiology Teaching". The specific objectives of the research were: Develop coordination procedures between conceptual content, procedural and attitudinal content through investigative practices; Assess the relevance, results and the acceptance of the proposed processes. It is a qualitative research, action-research, and to evaluate the results, we used focus groups, document analysis and participant observation. The product was applied to 46 students of a public university. The research subjects were the three monitors that implemented the project in conjunction with the teacher-researcher and 15 students who participated in the focus groups. It was possible to develop all planned steps and evaluation of their results indicate a good acceptance and that there was a link between the conceptual, procedural and attitudinal contents, arousing interest and expanding the opportunity to start the search for more students. Undergraduates who participated in the focus groups indicate that they can realize their application in future teaching actions. The monitors have recognized the quality and internal consistency of the proposal,  however, indicate the need for greater workload for the activity. We consider that the structured proposal can collaborate with teachers in order to assist them in implementing socioconstrutivist proposals. In degrees, can help in the indication of organizing activities that promote autonomy and the formation of teacher identity.