Academic knowledge versus popular knowledge: cordel literature in the teaching of agricultural practices

Abstract:

The simple and engaging language of cordel verses may provide greater interaction between academic knowledge and popular knowledge. In this regard, this study presents the results of an experience of cordel literature produced by students of the courses of Forest Engineering and Veterinary Medicine, located in the semiarid region of Paraíba. In order to discuss the problems and damage that indiscriminate fire can cause, some fundamental techniques and basic recommendations on how to conduct a controlled burn are presented. The direct way of showing the benefits and harms of the burns to the environment in cordel literature can be an important vehicle for students and for the countrymen themselves in the assimilation and building of knowledge. We conclude that cordel literature, such as the one produced in the reported experience, can be an interesting teaching material in the field of environmental education, besides, it can be used in Agricultural Sciences schools and, more broadly, with rural populations, by contributing to the improvement of learning in a dynamic and creative way.

Keywords:
ethnic-knowledge; uncontrolled fire; semiarid area