PARTICIPATORY METHODOLOGY WITH CONTEXTUALIZED EDUCATION IN ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION PEDAGOGICAL ACTIVITIES IN CARNAÍBA DO SERTÃO, JUAZEIRO-BA

Abstract

This article reports the authors’ experience with participatory methodologies, particularly Participatory Rapid Diagnosis and the Transect Walk, at Florentina Alves dos Santos Full-Time School (CODEFAS), located in Juazeiro, Bahia, Brazil. Conducted between 2015 and 2019, the experience involved approximately 300 third-year high school students and aimed to promote contextualized Environmental Education within the Caatinga biome. The Transect Walk enabled students to explore their surroundings, strengthen their connection with the local environment, and recognize their role within the landscape. The educational approach emphasized students’ traditional knowledge, encouraged the exchange of experiences, and fostered environmental responsibility. The activities revealed increased interest in the Brazilian Semi-Arid region and greater awareness of the importance of environmental conservation. Students developed a deeper appreciation of their experiences and knowledge while recognizing the significance of sustainable natural resource management. The findings suggest that participatory methodologies can effectively integrate local knowledge into educational practices, strengthening students’ engagement with environmental issues and sustainability. Furthermore, the Transect Walk demonstrated its potential as a pedagogical strategy for contextualized Environmental Education, particularly in territories characterized by distinctive ecological and sociocultural conditions. By promoting active interaction with the environment and encouraging reflection on local realities, these practices contribute to developing critical awareness, strengthening territorial identity, and fostering commitment to preserving the Caatinga biome. Ultimately, the experience highlights the relevance of participatory educational approaches in connecting school learning with everyday experiences and supporting more sustainable and resilient communities in the Brazilian Northeastern Semi-Arid region through meaningful engagement with local environmental challenges.