ABSTRACT
The research analyzed the influence of the Gender and Diversity Course at School (GDS) on the approach of gender and sexuality themes in the pedagogical practice of 12 Sciences teacher of Elementary Education in Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil. The research was guided by a qualitative approach and from semi-structured interviews. It was found that the course contributed to broaden the view of teachers on the socio-cultural construction of sexual and gender identities and subsidized the implementation of activities on the subject in the school context. The testimonies pointed to the need for continuing education to professionals who work with education subjects and more initiatives to consolidate actions within school institutions. Those testimonies revealed difficult working conditions, lack of incentives and various obstacles that increase the feeling of isolation among these professionals who struggle to change a reality. However, small initiatives, even in different intensities, bring important contributions to daily life pointing to the beginning of the construction of a more fair and egalitarian society. It is concluded that inserting the theme in the classroom depends almost exclusively on the teacher's personal disposition to face all adversities in affirming the rights of equality. It is hoped that this work may contribute to the transformation of school practices, destabilizing pre-conceived patterns as well as expanding the dissemination of research in the area of Science Teaching.
Keywords:
Sexuality; Gender; Science Education