PLUVIOEDUCA: A METHODOLOGY OF ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION AND ACTIVE LEARNING AT IFPA – BELÉM CAMPUS

Abstract

Climate change intensifies the occurrence of extreme events, making rainfall monitoring an essential tool for environmental management, urban planning, and public awareness. However, the high cost of automated meteorological stations limits their application in educational contexts. In this scenario, this study proposed the adaptation of an old weighing-system rain gauge, automated through the Arduino platform, as a low-cost pedagogical strategy aimed at environmental education and active learning at IFPA — Belém Campus. The adopted methodology integrated educational robotics, scientific experimentation, environmental education, and gamification, involving high school students in practical activities of rainfall monitoring, data interpretation, and reflection on climate change. The project was developed in three stages, including the adaptation and installation of the prototype, the training of teachers and students, and the application of diagnostic assessments before and after the PluvioEduca workshop. The results demonstrated the functionality, reliability, and pedagogical viability of the prototype, as well as an average 30% increase in student performance after the intervention. Greater understanding was observed regarding climatic phenomena, meteorological instruments, data interpretation, and the importance of rainfall monitoring for sanitation and sustainability. The project also promoted student protagonism, critical thinking, and environmental awareness, achieving recognition in scientific and institutional events. It is concluded that PluvioEduca constitutes an effective and innovative methodology, capable of integrating teaching, research, and extension, strengthening the technical and civic education of students. Its continuity and expansion to other courses and campuses are recommended, consolidating it as a reference in scientific, technological, and sustainable environmental education.