Trilha ecopedagógica no Parque Natural Municipal Professor João Vasconcelos Sobrinho: uma ferramenta facilitadora no estudo da Botânica

Abstract

The described activity aimed to make the teaching of Botany more engaging and meaningful through an ecopedagogical trail at the Professor João Vasconcelos Sobrinho Municipal Natural Park (PNMPJVS). It involved students from the 3rd semester of the integrated technical courses in Mechatronics and Occupational Safety, who were previously prepared with theoretical lessons on the Plant Kingdom and the creation of botanical boards. The approximately 4 km trail allowed direct contact with different plant groups, lichens, fungi, and elements of the Atlantic Forest, helping to overcome identification challenges observed in the classroom. Students produced reports with species records and environmental reflections. The activity reinforced student protagonism, interdisciplinarity, and ecological awareness, as proposed by the BNCC. It also highlighted student engagement in symbolic preservation actions, such as planting native seedlings and combating the illegal capture of birds. The trail proved to be an effective pedagogical tool, complementing theoretical classes and serving as a valuable instrument for environmental education.