In this work we investigate two aspects of the UFABC and USP experience with the CERN Masterclasses – Hands on Particle Physics event designed to students from high schools and undergraduate teaching courses. At first the motivational aspect to participate in the event was considered. Then, taking into account the content of the activities we search for the main goals and difficulties perceived by the students. From those informations we analysed the role of the event as a scientific communication instrument. For this, we take the contemporary definition of Science Communication proposed by Burns, O’Connor and Stocklmayer. In their view, science communication must be understood as a processes aiming to approach the scientific literacy ideals. Based on our results it is possible to suggest that the event is leading the participants to advance in direction of a Public Awareness and Understanding of Science. These processes allow the development of a scientific culture which, at the same time, works as cause and consequence for the processes engendering the Scientific Literacy ideals. From this perspective, we point out that changes in the event design as well as their contribuitions to socio-educational and cultural issues can be better supported.
Keywords
scientific communication; particle physics; CERN Masterclasses
