Parallax as an interdisciplinary aggregative theme and the compass as a motivating resource in the active learning of Physics

Abstract

In reason of a large number of objects of knowledge, Physics teaching requires strategies that unify and facilitate the construction of the skills necessary for the formation of students. In this sense, the concept of parallax is a choice that promotes interdisciplinarity, without losing focus on Physics. We elaborated a hybrid teaching didactic sequence using the Rotation by Seasons method in a collaborative way and a compass, as a motivating resource to determine experimentally distances of earth-based targets. We promoted a discussion about the parallax phenomenon as the main measurement objective, as an effect during the measurement procedure, and as an issue while using analog instruments. In addition to the experimental methods involved, we reinforce fundamental concepts such as distance, direction and uncertainties. We also promoted a historic review in the literature to provide to the teachers a repertoire on how parallax and compass are related to Natural Sciences, Mathematics, Human Sciences, Codes and Languages and their respective technologies. Finally, we report the application, providing the whole material, the instructions, and the suggestions on how to explore the learned concepts to apply parallax in Astronomy. During the application of this material, the participants increased their interpersonal relationships skills while they were learning of the explored concepts, enhanced by hybrid resources. They measured distances through parallax with an accuracy of 10%, in addition to presenting the analysis of the results, which allowed them to develop constructively their critical sense on the methods and means to achieve scientific aims.