Academic engagement: reflections on participation in scientific olympiads at the Instituto Federal do Rio Grande do Norte

REFLEXÕES SOBRE A PARTICIPAÇÃO EM OLIMPÍADAS CIENTÍFICAS NO INSTITUTO FEDERAL DO RIO GRANDE DO NORTE

Abstract

The advancement of science education is driven by academic olympiads, which promote pedagogical innovation and collaborative environments in basic education. Despite stimulating cognitive development, participation in these events faces challenges that impact teaching and learning. This study investigates the involvement of students and teachers at the Instituto Federal do Rio Grande do Norte - Campus Parelhas in knowledge olympiads, evaluating the implementation of these competitions. The methodology included collecting data on registrations for the main initiatives between 2021 and 2023 and a mixed questionnaire applied to teachers and students. The results indicate low student engagement, with an average of 91 registrations made by around 14% of those enrolled over the three years. Among the educators, the factors for these rates include a lack of clarity about the Olympic benefits, a preference for other activities, a lack of study groups and a lack of student interest. These findings guide the reformulation of effective approaches.