Sequência didática para o estudo de lançamento de satélites e do Sistema de Posicionamento Global

Abstract

The work was carried out at a state public school in Curitiba, PR, as part of the National Professional Master's Degree in Physics Teaching at the State University of Ponta Grossa. The project aimed to apply an educational product integrating satellite launches and the Global Positioning System (GPS) to physics teaching. Using basic physics concepts and Google Maps, the study incorporated role-playing elements to engage students in the subject, culminating in using a simulator to determine the best satellite launch parameters. The study's central problem question is: "How can we improve the teaching and learning of physics concepts related to satellite launches and GPS operation?". The general objective was to investigate, develop, and evaluate teaching approaches that improve students' understanding and learning of these concepts. The specific objectives included: developing a relevant didactic sequence; implementing this sequence in the classroom; evaluating the impact of the didactic sequence on students' cognitive development and investigating students' perceptions of the topic and the physical concepts' practical relevance. The educational product, "Top Secret Aerospace Mission (T.S.A.M.)," was a didactic sequence applied to a third-year high school class using the RPG format. In this context, the students took on the roles of scientific officers responsible for launching satellites, with minimal guidance from a teacher. This method promoted an immersive and meaningful learning experience. The results and discussions discourse the contributions observed during the application of the project, including self-criticism and testimonials from the students involved. The final considerations reiterate the analysis of the work's potential, projection, and future application, constituting a reflective account of the study's contributions.