Uso de um aplicativo móvel como recurso para aprendizagem sobre educação ambiental

Abstract

Environmental Education (EE) has become increasingly important on the world stage, considering the need to preserve the right conditions to ensure biodiversity, also survival of future generations of human beings. Understanding that EE can occur in all places, as well as the technology that is ubiquitous in digital culture, this research conducted a qualitative and quantitative research, based on bibliographic and documentary research on environmental issues and learning. In addition, a descriptive case study verified the possibility of using a mobile application (app) to affect learning about EE, in a sample of students from secondary education integrated to professional and technological education at IFG/Campus Luziânia. Questionnaires with an Ecological Footprint (PE) test were administered to students before and after they use the mobile app over a period of 15 days. This digital technology, available for mobile phones and tablets, has the PE test and an environmental educational game, being a potential mediator tool for EA. This allowed after qualitative and quantitative analysis, also identify the following aspects: if there was acceptance of the app by the subjects; if there was a reduction of their Ecological Footprint (PE); if the app could increase their environmental awareness. Notably, this app, considered within this study as Educational Product, revealed influence on the subjects, since some of them reduced their PE. In addition, most recommend it and believe that the environmental tips in it have been helpful in changing their lifestyle and contributing to nature. Thus, it is worth mentioning that this research aims to serve as basis for future theoretical and practical investigations in new fields of knowledge in Brazil, namely: gamification, mobile learning and PE associated with PE.