Uso da biologia forense como ferramenta investigativa para o ensino de genética

Abstract

Difficulties in molecular biology challenge teachers to seek new teaching methodologies. The present study aimed to develop an Investigative Teaching Sequence (SEI) with molecular biology practices as a problematic tool for teaching forensic genetics. The research was approved by the Research Ethics Committee (CEP-UESPI Protocol 3,196,797). The target audience was 3rd year high school students in the municipality of Canto do Buriti (PI). The research of a qualitative and quantitative nature and of an interventional character consisted of a pre-intervention moment with a questionnaire and discursive interactions based on problematizing situations; six moments that aimed to encourage the student to search and share videos through WhatsApp, to investigate fatherhood simulations; set up a crime scene; perform DNA extraction and playful simulations (Polymerase Chain Reaction and electrophoresis), thus becoming the protagonist of the investigative process. After SEI, the post-questionnaire, normalized learning gain (g) and feedback questionnaire were evaluated and expressed as a percentage. In general, in the pre-test, students showed difficulties in the perception and knowledge of molecular techniques applied in forensics. During SEI, discursive interactions between students showed a critical and investigative position in the face of problematization and scientific maturity. After each stage of SEI, questions asked by students showed the development of skills and understanding of the theme. The post-test was satisfactory, with hits ranging from 43 to 77% of the questions. The g was categorized as medium and high in most questions and the feedback showed good acceptance by the students for the methodologies used. Therefore, SEI facilitated the understanding of the dynamics of forensic genetics, minimizing the gap between theory and practice, as well as arousing a greater interest among students in relation to the study of Molecular Genetics.