Formação de um núcleo de apoio regional a professores de física em serviço no ensino médio baseado na Universidade de Itaúna

Abstract

In the present work we discuss the implementation of a regional pilot program of support to physics teachers in service in secondary level, based on the University of Itaúna. It is presented a mapping of the needs of physics teachers working in the area of Itaúna, Minas Gerais. We have surveyed their profile (academic background, motivation and professionalexpectations) and demands in terms of continuing education and new approaches targeted at classroom reality. To situate the present work, it is included a review of the existing permanent and intermittent support programs to teachers and students of high school level carried out in Brazil and other countries. There are several support programs, with different methodologies, but they dont reach all teachers. Our survey showed that most teachers are discontent with their job. Moreover, they are practically isolated from the academy and rarely participate of programs of continuing education. Often, the existing programs do notcorrespond to their expectations and needs. Nevertheless, with all problems, the teachers still have interest to obtain professional improvement, but they dont find encouragement and support in that direction. To implement the pilot program we counted on a net ofcollaborators. The program brought several benefits to the teachers, like the creation of a space where they can interact with scientists and colleagues, the opportunity of contact with the scientific research and new ideas to their practice. The results show that it is possible to develop some meaningful actions in respect to physics teachers support, based on a private university that doesnt offer the undergraduate course of physics. The work carried out led to an shortening of the distance between teachers/researchers, university/schools, research/teaching. Our work also led to the installation of a astronomic observatory, withwhich we gain a permanent space inside the university dedicated to support science teaching.