GGEOGRAPHY AND CARTOGRAPHY: STUDENTS' DIFFICULTIES IN RELATION TO CARTOGRAPHY IN HIGH SCHOOL

Abstract

Geography has the role of teaching cartographic science in such a way as to enable students to read their environment. This requires a solid basic education that can achieve cartographic literacy in students and promote the reading and interpretation of maps and images. This study sought to elucidate how cartography has been taught in public schools in Manaus, identifying in particular the difficulties faced by students in the first year of secondary school and proposing solutions for improving cartographic learning. It was carried out by means of a bibliographical survey, using a quantitative and qualitative approach, with questionnaires applied in two 1st year high school classes, totaling 38 students participating in answering the questions. The results indicated shortcomings in the teaching of cartography, highlighting the difficulties faced by students due to the fact that cartographic science is not part of their basic teaching process, as 68% have not been taught the subject, the omission of the subject by elementary school teachers due to their lack of mastery of the subject, and students arriving at secondary school with no knowledge of the subject. Finally, the use of geotechnologies can make teaching more engaging and effective. Their role is fundamental for teaching geography in the 21st century, due to their connection to the internet and information systems, which make them attractive to young people, thus contributing to the formation of new skills.