DEVELOPMENT OF COGNITIVE CONDUCTS DURING A COMPUTER SIMULATED ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

This paper points out that acid rain is an environmental problem that usually occurs in regions close to carboelectric complexes. A possible solution to this anthropogenic problem requires elements that go beyond the domain of physico-chemical knowledge. Therefore, we consider that it is necessary to approach this problem from an interdisciplinary perspective. Thus, the aim of this research was to demonstrate the attitudes that some individuals, put into practice in the analysis and solution of a computer-simulated environmental problem. The method employed was the case study and it counted on 8 participants aged between 14 and 17 years old. Data were obtained through systematic observation, clinical interviews and log files. Data interpretation aimed to evince the development of cognitive conducts in the environmental analysis. Thus the existence of different behavior profiles related to environment were verified: individuals oriented by economical notions; individuals oriented by Law principles and those guided by models of the natural science's descriptions and explanations. [Chem. Educ. Res. Pract.: 2004, 5, 157-174]