FROM THE CLASSROOM TO RESEARCH: BLOOD TYPING AND WATER QUALITY AS AREAS OF SCIENTIFIC PRODUCTION OPTIMIZING ACADEMIC LEARNING

Abstract

This report describes the project "From Classroom to Research: Blood Typing and Water Quality as Areas of Scientific Production Optimizing Academic Learning," implemented at the Advogado Nobel Vita State High School (Coremas/PB) in 2017. The project aimed to optimize student learning through scientific initiation and article production, addressing relevant curriculum topics and social contexts. Initially, two research lines were established: Genetics, focused on blood typing identification (ABO and Rh systems) and blood donation awareness (including the development of a donor app prototype); and Ecology, dedicated to analyzing physicochemical water parameters in reservoirs and wells, amidst a severe drought. Subsequently, a third line was incorporated, covering Quality of Life (monitoring blood pressure, heart rate, and body composition before and after physical activity). The methodology included practical laboratory activities, debates, data cataloging, use of social media for dissemination, and the production of scientific articles, promoting the application of Portuguese Language (reading, writing, and interpretation) and Mathematics (calculations, statistics, and graphs) skills. The results indicate high student engagement, the development of research and critical analysis skills, improved preparation for evaluative exams such as ENEM and IDEPB, and the formation of citizens more committed to collective issues. It is concluded that the scientific initiation approach in high school is an effective method for contextualizing learning, fostering interest in science, and empowering students for academic and social challenges.