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High school students’ perception of the biotechnology elective at a state school in Goiás

Abstract

High school electives are subjects offered to students as part of their training itineraries, allowing them to choose topics of personal interest to complement their basic training. The biotechnology elective in the high school educational context refers to an optional subject offered to students, which explores the principles, applications and impacts of biotechnology. The aim of this study was to investigate students' perceptions of the various biotechnological topics covered during classes in the Biotechnology elective. The research involved 23 students from the Osmundo Gonzaga Filho Full-Time Education Center, in Caldas Novas, and was conducted between February and June 2024. The methodology used qualitative and quantitative questionnaires to assess the students' knowledge of biotechnology and its applications, both before and after the course. The results indicate that the majority of students were unaware of Biotechnology before starting the elective, but the theoretical and practical classes significantly increased their understanding and interest in the area. Topics such as DNA manipulation, environmental biotechnology and their practical applications were especially attractive to the students. In addition, all the participants recognized the importance of biotechnology in solving problems in sectors such as health, agriculture and the environment. The study concludes that the inclusion of Biotechnology electives in the school curriculum is fundamental to preparing students for future challenges, promoting scientific and technological skills and a deeper understanding of socio-scientific issues.

KEY WORDS: Student autonomy. Teaching Biotechnology. Skills development. Training itineraries. Full-time education.