"Robótica é Coisa de Menina"

Reflexões sobre uma experiência formativa

Abstract

This research, an excerpt from a master's dissertation, followed a project that aimed to include a group of girls in technological initiatives involving educational robotics. The objective of the action was to propose an inclusive approach that would encourage the participation of girls in robotics projects. The motivation for the project stemmed from the concern with the predominantly male presence in academic and professional environments. Education is understood as a means of civic formation capable of reducing inequalities and including those who, for various reasons, are excluded from the most significant sectors of society. The entire process had a qualitative nature, adopting participant observation as the methodological strategy. The investigation into this experience was divided into three stages: (i) theoretical study on the issues of inclusion and exclusion of girls in scientific and technological activities; (ii) monitoring of the project; (iii) reflections on the experience. The course of this project highlighted that robotics olympiads are a major epicenter for promoting the involvement of female students in such initiatives. Actions like this contribute to the development of personal skills, such as teamwork, solidarity, and communication abilities. This research showed students that science is a field with space for everyone, influencing their future career choices and empowering them to encourage other girls to enter the world of science.