Dissemination... of what kind of science? Reflections on the representation of scientists in the journal Ciência Hoje das Crianças

Abstract:

This study aimed to analyze the representations of scientists present in the journal Ciência Hoje das Crianças (CHC). The research presents a qualitative approach and documentary typology. The content analysis framework was used, from which three categories emerged: individualist-elitist, gender-position, and origin. Based on the analyses, it was possible to infer that the CHC journal presents a duality in its representations, given that it still brings in its content elitist and individualistic examples of scientists, there are also examples with plurality of bodies, genders, etc. Finally, it is important to highlight that the CHC journal is important for science teaching that directly contributes to the construction of an imaginary about scientists for those who read it. Thus, it becomes a fundamental space for breaking paradigms that have long been perpetuated in Scientific Dissemination materials.

Keywords:
Child education; Science dissemination; Mental representation; Perception; Scientist