Para além da lousa: explorando o uso de softwares educacionais livres para a inclusão digital nas escolas estaduais da Superintendência Regional de Ensino de Divinópolis

Abstract

The current thesis addresses the promotion of digital inclusion in public schools in Minas Gerais through the use of free software provided by the Linux System, made available by the State Secretariat of Education of Minas Gerais (SEE MG). The study examines the use of this software in the training programs offered by the Educational Technology Center (NTE) of Divinópolis, exploring the challenges and strategies for integrating Digital Information and Communication Technologies (DICT) into the school context. The research posed the following question: How can the use of educational technologies, specifically the free educational software of the Linux System available in public schools under SEE MG, promote digital inclusion through the training offered by the NTE of Divinópolis? The main objective of the research is to propose strategies to foster digital inclusion in public schools, overcoming challenges in the implementation of DICT and emphasizing the use of free software, with a focus on training programs provided by the NTE. The specific objectives are: (I) to describe the role of the NTE of Divinópolis in its functions and training initiatives to support the use of educational technologies; (II) to analyze the quality of the training offered by the NTE, with a particular focus on the educational software of the Linux SEE MG; (III) to identify barriers faced by teachers, such as lack of familiarity with technology, resource limitations, or resistance to change, while also exploring the potential of Linux tools in teaching and learning processes; (IV) to develop an action plan to encourage the adoption and use of free educational technologies and software available in schools, based on the role of the NTE and insights from the research. The theoretical framework was grounded in authors such as José Manuel Moran (2013), Marcos Masetto and Marilda Aparecida Behrens (2013), Adriana Bruno (2021), and Magda Pischetola (2019). The methodological approach included documentary analyses, collection of quantitative and qualitative data through questionnaires, a literature review, and a non-experimental field data collection strategy, providing a contextual perspective of educational dynamics. The results revealed challenges, such as teacher resistance to using technology, inadequate technological infrastructure in some schools, and limitations in technical training. However, the analysis also highlighted significant potential for strengthening digital culture, with both managers and teachers recognizing technology as a strategic pedagogical tool. In response to these challenges and opportunities, the proposed action plan aims to expand the use of DICT, particularly the Linux SEE MG educational tools, ensuring their integration aligns with the specific needs of public schools in the region.