IDENTIFICANDO POSSÍVEIS TENSÕES NA ATIVIDADE DE APRENDIZAGEM DE ALUNOS DE UM CURSO DE ENGENHARIA MECÂNICA: UMA ANÁLISE SEGUNDO A TEORIA DA ATIVIDADE

Abstract

We present a study based the framework ofActivity Theory on the tensions (contradictions) in the dailyactivity of a Calculus I classroom. The participants arefollowing a course in Mechanical Engineering at a privateeducational institution in the state of Minas Gerais.According to the theoretical perspective chosen to developthe research, human activity is in constant transformation,driven by internal contradictions. The latter will emerge anddrive the development of the activity through innovation andchange. The study of the elements of tension, which permeatan activity, is important to understand it and to reflect onpossibilities to change. A questionnaire was elaborated andresponded by students who volunteered to participate in theresearch. The results suggest several tensions whithin theactivity on focus and give directions for transformationswhich could represent improvement in the teaching andlearning process of Calculus I.Index Terms ⎯ Activity Theory, learning activity, tensionpoints.