Desenvolvimento e aplicação de ferramentas de ensino-aprendizagem de Biologia Celular baseadas em multissensorialidade, realidade virtual e realidade aumentada para alunos com visão típica e com deficiência visual no ensino superior

Abstract

Cell Biology explores the functional, morphological, and biochemical aspects of cells, the fundamental units of life. One of the main challenges in teaching this subject is to develop students’ ability to collect, analyze, apply, and synthesize information - essential skills for understanding simple and complex biological concepts. These challenges affect all students, who enter higher education with varying levels of prior knowledge, but they are particularly pronounced for students with visual impairments. In addition to academic obstacles, these students often encounter attitudinal barriers, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of teaching methods tailored to their needs. To address these issues, this study aimed to develop, implement, and validate inclusive strategies, methodologies, and tools for teaching Cell Biology. The initial focus was on pedagogical approaches grounded in multisensory learning and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles, specifically designed to support a blind student enrolled in an undergraduate health sciences course. Cell Biology learning tools appropriate for students with and without visual impairments were also developed using virtual (VR) and augmented (AR) reality and following the principles of educational design research (EDR). The multisensory strategies resulted in significant assimilation of the content by the blind student, increased participation in classroom activities, improved oral communication, motivation and self-esteem. The tool development phase resulted in the creation of three-dimensional (3D) models enhanced with AR and VR, all hosted on a dedicated website featuring explanatory texts and accessibility features, such as audio descriptions and color-changing interface. Feedback from students - both with and without visual impairments - and from Cell Biology teachers from health and biological sciences indicated that the tools were well received, offering greater immersion and student engagement. These findings highlight that inclusive approaches based on multisensory strategies, VR and AR can significantly improve Cell Biology learning for all students. Furthermore, they underscore how well-designed accessibility measures can contribute to making higher education a more equitable and inclusive environment for everyone.