A methodology proposal with the participation of children in family visits to science museums

Abstract

There are several research methods that can be used with children and that aim to include, listen and involve them, seeking to learn from the children themselves about their views and experiences and, thus, to meet their needs appropriately. However, there are still many gaps in the theoretical-methodological choices that seek to value the participation of children in the research process and, in particular, in spaces of informal education. This article considers the methodological and practical dimensions of data building in an investigation that studied the process of scientific literacy in the experience of children in family visits to two Brazilian science museums. The traditional child-centered steps, choices and methods used are presented and the challenges and important achievements achieved in the development of the research are discussed, in three points, namely: (i) the pedagogical specificity of museums; (ii) participation and autonomy in the research process; (iii) listening and involving children in the research process. The discussion of these points offers insights for researchers who seek to offer children participation in traditional research methods in science museums.