A LEARNING DINNER: an experience report on the development of an active teaching methodology

relato de experiência sobre o desenvolvimento de uma metodologia ativa de ensino

Abstract

The teaching-learning process using active methodologies proposes a break from the traditional model and places all subjects as active participants in this process. The aim of this study is to report on the experience of designing and implementing an active methodology based on the book "A elite do atraso: da escravidão à Bolsonaro" by Jessé Souza.  The proposal was designed to present a discussion of this book in the format of a seminar, which was applied by students from a Postgraduate Programme in Collective Health. The seminar was based on a themed dinner, which was called the "Elitist Menu". The stages of the discussion followed the items usually presented at a dinner party: starter, main course, garnish and dessert. Participants were organised into sub-groups to present and discuss the themes, encouraging active participation from all involved. The elitist menu comprised the following dishes: the menu items, which were named after central themes of the book, included "Bruschetta à la Senzala”, "Fillet Mignon in classé medié sauce with brazilian herbs”, "Pasta a la manobra” and "Petit Gadô”. These names were chosen to promote involvement, discussions, and deeper understanding, which in turn assisted the participants in their learning process in a playful, creative, and innovative manner. It is also important to note that this methodology demonstrates viability and potential for reproduction in other scenarios and is in line with the proposal to involve students in their own teaching-learning process.