PHYSICS AND URBAN MOBILITY: THE USE OF BICYCLES AND THE PROBLEMS OF TRANSPORTATION IN THE CITY OF PATOS-PB

Abstract

This work describes a project carried out at the Rio Branco State Elementary and High School, organized by the Physics teacher, which took place in two phases. The first phase was developed based on traffic education as proposed in the Brazilian Traffic Code (CTB), a concept rarely addressed in schools. Through research and presentation of the problems faced by all citizens in the city's traffic, including those who use bicycles as a means of transport due to financial constraints and the high price of gasoline, it became clear, particularly in opinion polls, that many students were concerned not only about themselves, such as those who lack private transportation to get to school, but also about the elderly. They expressed a desire for the city to have quality public transportation at lower prices (the most accessible transportation for people with lower purchasing power is the use of motorcycle taxis, which the elderly and people with disabilities cannot use). The project also discussed raising awareness about reducing pollution and improving quality of life. The second phase involved working with students to propose solutions for increased bicycle use among the population, a trend already underway, including among young people, but with greater safety, through education and responsibility in traffic by all involved, and also greater accountability from all those involved in the use of public policies that can improve urban mobility in the city. The project was based on the perception of existing difficulties in the teaching-learning process of Physics, as well as all disciplines in the area of ​​exact sciences, making it necessary to focus more on methodologies that explore the historicity and applicability of science, which can make the teaching of Physics richer and more interesting.