Aprendizagem baseada em problemas no ensino de Física: uma proposta para o ensino da espectroscopia das estrelas

Abstract

Given the current challenges in Physics education and the lack of student engagement in traditional classroom settings, several researchers in the field highlight that, despite existing obstacles, the use of active methodologies offers a promising alternative. These approaches bring dynamism to the classroom, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, while also encouraging collaborative and supportive group work. Such practices are aligned with the guidelines of the Base Nacional Comum Curricular (BNCC), which promotes the development of personal and professional skills essential for students’ social and academic growth. This study reports the use of the active methodology Problem-Based Learning (PBL) in Physics education in a public high school class. For this purpose, a teaching sequence was designed based on the theoretical framework of PBL, addressing concepts related to stellar spectroscopy. The educational product was implemented through an observational method, in which the teacher-researcher acted as both observer and participant. This professional was responsible for documenting the process, applying the activities, analyzing outcomes, and evaluating final questionnaires using the technique of extensive direct observation. From the researcher’s perspective, the process proved to be both productive and effective, in terms of both the implementation of the methodology and students’ understanding of physical phenomena. Although students showed difficulties concentrating during cognitively demanding tasks, such as hypothesis creation or conceptualization of phenomena, their overall engagement was high. Regarding the adoption of PBL, 90% of the students responded positively, indicating significant participation, collaborative work, and adaptation to the methodology. Therefore, it is concluded that PBL had a positive impact and can be effectively applied to teaching Physics topics, including those from Modern and Contemporary Physics, in high school contexts.