Educação digital para prevenção da disseminação de fake news: uma abordagem construcionista baseada em Seymour Papert

Abstract

The dissemination of fake news constitutes a social and educational challenge, demanding the formation of critical digital users. This study investigated how the constructionist approach, based on the principles of educator Seymour Papert, can contribute to the development of a critical digital education aimed at preventing fake news among students in Youth and Adult Education (YAE). For this purpose, a qualitative, applied, and interventionist research was conducted, aiming not only to understand the reality of the group but also to intervene collaboratively to promote educational transformation. The pedagogical intervention was carried out at the Centro Estadual de Educação Profissional 2 de Julho, in Porto Seguro, Bahia, Brazil, with 11 YAE students aged between 19 and 50. Over four classes, an activity plan based on "learning by doing" was implemented, using the Cartilha de Boatos (Rumor Handbook) as a central resource. Data collection, supported by a Free and Informed Consent Form, was multimodal, including participant observation (with field diary records), analysis of student productions, interviews, and a perception questionnaire applied at the end. The results revealed significant advances in the development of digital critical thinking and autonomy in information verification. Student testimonials evidenced the internalization of verification practices, such as greater caution in sharing and a systematic search for reliable sources. The collaborative and hands-on methodology was positively evaluated, with students highlighting the clarity, practicality, and "fun" aspect of the classes, elements aligned with Papert's view on engagement in learning. It is concluded that the constructionist approach, by promoting an environment of collective construction and practical investigation, is a potent pedagogical strategy to empower YAE students to recognize, analyze, and prevent the dissemination of disinformation.