An Exploration of the Use of Active Learning Methodologies in the Technical Course in Agriculture and Livestock – IFAL Satuba Campus

Abstract

Active learning methodologies are educational approaches that place students at the center of the learning process, fostering engagement, motivation, and active participation. Furthermore, these participatory approaches promote the development of cognitive and socio-emotional skills. The theoretical foundations of these methods draw on various pedagogical ideas, such as those of John Dewey in *Experience and Education* (1938), Jean Piaget’s theory discussed in *The Child's Conception of the World* (1926), and the work of renowned Brazilian thinker Paulo Freire, specifically *Pedagogy of Autonomy* (1996). In this context, the research aims to analyze the methodologies employed in the vocational high school program at IFAL – Satuba Campus and to evaluate which teaching-learning approaches fostered active development among former students. The study adopted a mixed-methods approach (qualitative and quantitative), utilizing an online questionnaire with questions regarding the active learning methods used in the agricultural science course. The questionnaire was sent to ten graduates of the technical program (class of 2016) and remained available for two weeks. The results revealed limited diversity in the active learning methods used in the agricultural science course; seminars and practical field classes predominated, offering limited opportunities for student development. Given this scenario, there is a clear need to incorporate a wider range of active learning methodologies to enrich the students' education and broaden their educational perspectives.