Construction of models for Scientific Dissemination of Chemistry and study of its contribution to the formation of the scientific spirit

Abstract

It is a known fact that Chemistry is an area of small prestige among high school students who hardly understand the characteristics of this science, associating it with formulas and rules. The same happens with the population that associates this science with everything that is harmful to the environment. Actions in different spheres have been taken to stimulate the development of a more mature and positive view of sciences by the population. Museums and science centers appear as an important element to contribute in this search to awaken people's interest in science and technology and to contribute to scientific education. However, few Chemistry activities can be found in museums and science centers in Brazil and worldwide. Among the main reasons for this lack pointed out in the literature are the impossibility of leaving materials and reagents exposed for visitors to handle mainly for security reasons. With previous funding, significant advances have been achieved in the production of a model that enables experiments to be carried out by the visitor without any physical contact with reagents, products or disposal material. This project refers to the construction of chemical models and the study of their contribution to the formation of the scientific spirit of the visitors with the combination of quantitative and qualitative strategies using Gaston Bachelard as theoretical framework. (AU)