The undergraduation in Chemistry: evaluation, perspectives and challenges

Quimica nova

Zucco, César¹ 

[1] Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brasil

关键词: undergraduation in Chemistry;    evaluation;    challenges.;   

DOI  :  10.1590/S0100-40422007000600010

学科分类：化学（综合）

来源: Sociedade Brasileira de Quimica

【 摘 要 】

Poor standards in schools and the increase inthe number of institutions of higher education – frequently without thedue control – have adversely affected the quality of university leveleducation in Brazil. On the other hand, evaluation of undergraduate courses,which has been carried out regularly since the min 1990's allow, within certainlimits, a description of the quality Brazilian higher education courses in general,and Chemistry courses in specific. This paper evaluates the results of the nationalexaminations (2000 and 2003's ENC, and 2005's ENADE), attrition rates for the1990's and for the 2000-2005 period, as well as the perceptions of studentsand instructors that took part in those exams. Furthermore, the paper also analyzesthe opinions of academics and of private sector professionals about the educationalsystem's capacity to meet the job market's demand for skilled labor force. Theactual profile of Chemistry graduates is then compared to what is demanded fromthem by the market, revealing deficiencies in the educational system. The expectedessential curricula changes that would introduce an innovative and advancedapproach in the undergraduate courses have become great challenges. In thissense, the paper seeks to reflect on questions such as: How to give informativecourses a formative emphasis? Which programs should be included in the curriculato involve students in activities that require initiative and decision-making,thus fostering both learning and interest in Chemistry? How to prepare instructorsfor schools and for higher education? How to increase instruction in relatedareas without expanding the curricula excessively? How to introduce entrepreneurshipin the curricula and further awareness of the professional non-academic careersin the area?

【 授权许可】

CC BY