Traditional knowledge of medicinal plants and science education curriculum

Abstract

ABSTRACT. Evolution of scientific knowledge over the centuries and technological aspects and innovations led to what we call "cultural metamorphosis" in several areas. Through its activities and the prevailing ideology of "science as the sole and/or main source of truth" we face the loss or stagnation of popular knowledge acquired in decades - such as traditional knowledge about medicinal plants - which is being replaced by pharmaceutical knowledge that is, in a contradictory way, also produced based on the knowledge of "traditional experts”. Through research in locus in the Agrovila Nova Conquista, in Açailândia, Maranhão State, we found a high diversity of medicinal plants (42 species) found in this area and we identified their use with medicinal purpose. From recorded interviews, informal conversations and theoretical reading, we build a proposed pedagogical approach in science teaching in the Basic Education School Oziel Alves in Açailândia, Maranhão State, which may contribute to the articulation between elements of the local reality and the contents worked in science education at the school in question.