A JOURNEY THROUGH MUSEUM AND OUTER SPACE: PLAYFUL NARRATIVES OF YOUNG CHILDREN

NARRATIVAS BRINCANTES DE CRIANÇAS PEQUENAS

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.34019/2447-5246.2025.v30.47536

Abstract

Since 2015, the Museum of Astronomy and Related Sciences (MAST) has observed an increase in visits by young children, leading to the inclusion of early childhood in its educational initiatives. In this context, the action MAST-Outer Space Journey – Tikuna Sky edition was designed for children aged 3 to 6 who visit the museum with their families. The initiative seeks to establish a connection with children's culture and encourages young participants to take on a protagonist role while simultaneously fostering their engagement with Scientific Literacy (SL). To understand how this initiative enhances SL processes, we conducted an evaluative study based on interviews with 11 participants several months after the activity, using a carefully designed, child-centered instrument. Data analysis, following Bardin (1977), revealed the appropriation of scientific concepts, particularly those related to the constellation depicting the struggle between the jaguar and the anteater, as narrated by the Tikuna People. Additionally, the children referenced institutional elements, such as the celestial chart produced at MAST and their own artistic creations. Furthermore, play-based interactions and the emotional bonds formed—especially with the educator-researchers—were prominent in the responses, underscoring the significance of human and respectful mediation in initiatives aimed at this audience. 

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Author Biographies

Patricia Figueiro Spinelli, Museu de Astronomia e Ciências Afins

Ph.D. in Natural Sciences from Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität and the International Max Planck Research School on Astrophysics. Senior Researcher at the Science Education Department of the Museum of Astronomy and Related Sciences. External Deputy Coordinator of the Postgraduate Program in Science Communication and Popularization and faculty member of the Master's Program in Science, Technology, and Health Communication, both at Casa de Oswaldo Cruz – Fiocruz. Member of the Early Childhood in Museums Network (PIMu). CNPq Productivity Fellow – Level 2.   

Isabel Aparecida Mendes-Henze, Museu de Astronomia e Ciências Afins

Isabel Aparecida Mendes Henze has a degree in Pedagogy from UFRJ; Master in Education Health Professional from EPSJV/Fiocruz; PhD in Education PUC-Rio. It is currently collaborating researcher at the Museum of Astronomy and Related Sciences; is part of the Group of Study and Research in Education, Museum, Culture and Childhood (GEPEMCI); works as a teacher in PUC-Rio Extension Courses; is part of the Museum Educators Network (REM-RJ and REM-BR) and the Early Childhood Network in Museums (PIMu Network).

Published

2025-05-23

How to Cite

Spinelli, P. F. ., & Mendes-Henze, I. A. . (2025). A JOURNEY THROUGH MUSEUM AND OUTER SPACE: PLAYFUL NARRATIVES OF YOUNG CHILDREN : NARRATIVAS BRINCANTES DE CRIANÇAS PEQUENAS . Educação Em Foco, 30(Dossiê Temático), e30019. https://doi.org/10.34019/2447-5246.2025.v30.47536

Issue

Section

Dossiê: Educação museal com bebês e crianças: patrimônio cultural e vivências