Pedagogy graduates (2002-2012) from USP’s School of Education: perceptions on the formative experience

Abstract

Studies with University graduates usually offer invaluable information for reviewing and improving curricula. Seeking to identify the students’ profile and opinions about the formative experience and their entry into the educational field, USP’s School of Education’s Pedagogy Course Coordinating Committee carried out this research with students who graduated between 2002 and 2012. An online questionnaire answered by 255 former students allowed to identify the profile, course duration, and professional activity during and after graduation. A second questionnaire obtained 190 responses from graduates working in state and municipal schools. Of these, 19 were drawn and interviewed about the perceived contributions of the formative experience to teaching and/or management. The participants highlighted both positive aspects and need for changes on the following aspects: conceptual deepening and didactic strategies adopted by professors; theory-practice relationship; organization of elective courses; internship structure; and content covered in some courses. Importantly, the changes implemented following 2012 have met some of these demands. Graduates, especially those conscious of the professional challenges, should be heard. The study provided a broad overview of the Pedagogy course, allowing us to better understand its dynamics and to reflect on the pedagogical and framework conditions offered.

Pedagogy course; Graduates; Curriculum; Teacher education; Professional exercise