Medidas da velocidade da luz usando observações e simulações astronômicas das luas de Júpiter

Abstract

In this work we propose an interdisciplinary modular teaching sequence on the measurement of the speed of light which is compatible with the traditional basic education’s sillabus. Based on the Römer method to measure the time difference between the occultation of Jupiter's moons in different orbital configurations with respect to the Earth, we developed educational activities that include: (a) observations of Jupiter's moons occultations through amateur telescopes; (b) data analysis using professional Astronomy softwares; (c) simulations using the software Stellarium and (d) the use of spreadsheets for the calculations involved to explore the physics contents. The modules can be applied independently and they are associated to educational products like didactic sequences, tutorials, video tutorials and info-animation in PowerPoint to support the lectures. We add three extra classes to the usual curriculum, which however can be easily adapted to the usual lecture. For these classes we prepared two info-animations employing the Peer Instruction and Just-in-time teaching methods besides practical activities centered on the students, following the Meaningful Learning approaches. With these resources we explore kinematics concepts (linear and circular movements), systems of reference, vectors and scientific epistemology. By mean of a pre and post-tests using questions from the High School National Exams (ENEM) involving the topics of Physics and Astronomy proposed in this work, we verified a considerable progress in the pattern of responses before and after our intervention to more than 90% of the addressed questions. Based on publicly available data by the National Institute for Studies and Educational Research (INEP) we identify a significantly higher yield of right answers of our students when compared with the average responses of all students from Sergipe who participated of the National Exams. Methodological corrections to this work based on the problems identified during the application of our products are proposed.