THE HIDDEN STARS GAME AS A TOOL FOR PROMOTING AND ENHANCED WOMEN IN ASTRONOMY AND ASTRONOMY TEACHING METHODOLOGY FOR BASIC EDUCATION

Abstract

The Hidden Stars – The Game project aims to raise awareness about women’s contributions to astronomy through the development and implementation of an interactive card board game at the Coronel Humberto Bezerra High School in Quixeramobim, Ceará. Two questionnaires were applied to assess the need for and usability of the game. The first questionnaire analyzed the need to work on the theme in a dynamic and easy-to-understand way for students. The second questionnaire sought to identify how students evaluated the game in aspects such as the learning obtained from its use. Based on principles of playful learning and meaningful learning, the project aims to engage students in a fun and educational way, stimulating reflection on gender equality in science. Previous research revealed that 85.1% of students could not name a single female astronomer and 79% perceive female representation in astronomy as low. In response to this data, the Hidden Stars game highlights the historical contributions of scientists such as Caroline Herschel and Vera Rubin, seeking to correct the historical underrepresentation of women in science. The project also aims to increase students’ interest in astronomy, encouraging research in related fields. Hidden Stars is not just a game, but a powerful tool to promote diversity and inclusion in the field of science, inspiring gender equality in science.