Perceptions and knowledge of students about fungi

Abstract

The present study is aimed to investigate the perceptions and knowledge that high school students present about fungi, organisms of ecological, medical and economic importance. The methodological path of this investigation involved the participation of 305 students from public and private schools in Diadema, SP, a city located in the metropolitan area of the state of São Paulo. Data collection was carried out by applying a research questionnaire, developed and validated to understand the view of students on the subject. The results showed that students finish basic education with limited knowledge about fungi and barely understand the importance of these organisms in the environment and in everyday life. In addition to showing misconceptions about these organisms, it is expected that the results of this study will broaden the debates and reflections on the teaching of mycology in schools and in teacher training institutions in order to positively impact on the pedagogical practice of teachers and, consequently, on the learning of students, especially when the subject is fungi.