Gigantes da Paraíba: exposição itinerante de fósseis de Megafauna como forma de divulgação científica e preservação do patrimônio fossilífero no estado da Paraíba.

Abstract

Scientific dissemination plays a very important role in the expansion of scientific knowledge, in Paleontology it acts in a fundamental way, helping to preserve the fossiliferous heritage through the knowledge of fossils and their importance. Therefore, the present work aims to pass on basic knowledge about Paleontology and fossiliferous heritage through scientific dissemination about the fossils of pleistocene Megafauna in the state of Paraíba. The work was carried out through itinerant exhibitions in 6 schools in the municipality of Areia-Paraíba. The exhibitions were divided into two major stages, the first related to the knowledge of teachers' conceptions about paleontology through semi-structured questionnaires, and the second stage through pedagogical interventions, with actions focused on heritage education. Based on the results obtained, it was observed that teachers, despite knowing what paleontology is, confuse the object of study of paleontology (fossil) with archeology, in addition, they have limited knowledge regarding the region's fossiliferous riches. Many are unaware of the occurrence of megafauna fossils, even though the state has a large record of fossils of these animals in its territory. In addition, teachers who use Paleontology in the classroom are very limited to textbooks, which sometimes may not address the subject in a useful way. With this in mind, the patrimonial education work was very profitable, making it possible for the students and teachers who participated in the project to have a broader view on paleontology. In addition, it allowed the university to fulfill once again its fundamental role of meeting the demands of the community, further strengthening its commitment to society.