Abstract:
The study focuses on the curricular meanings of the microscope in the context of teaching Biology at Colégio Pedro II in the 1960s and 70s. Through theoretical references derived from the history of school subjects, school material culture and anthropology, we understand that such an artifact has produced cultural and curricular practices that are part of the socio-historical consolidation of Biology in that institution. The microscope is thus perceived as essential in the materialization of practical activities in association with what is considered the good teacher. The microscope is still understood as a central point in teaching actions, demarcating its respective disciplinary community around practical experimental classes. Such an object is perceived as a contributor to the process of unification, legitimation and modernization of biology in the school. Although it has added new elements to his disciplinary practice, it also interacted with traditions already consolidated within the scope of that discipline, with regard to animal dissection practices.
Keywords:
Biology teaching; Microscope; Teaching materials; Laboratory equipment