Morfologia de Angiospermas: a ilustração como ferramenta de Ensino de Botânica

Abstract

This study aims to understand how illustration aids in the comprehension of Botanical Organography, considering the perspective of undergraduate students in Biological Sciences and the variety of techniques employed in scientific illustration as a didactic tool in Botany education, in relation to photography from a semiotic perspective. The research was conducted in three methodological stages: analysis of course syllabi related to Phanerogam Biology in public universities in the State of São Paulo; selection of illustrations and photographs representing floral morphology and formulation of definitions of reproductive organs; and application of a questionnaire to students and graduates to assess the relationship and preference between illustrations and photographs. After data collection, a numerical analysis was conducted on the efficiency of representation methods for Angiosperm Organography. The results indicate a preference for illustrations over photographs, although there is no consensus regarding the specific type of illustration. The choice of images may be influenced by the scarcity of photographs with captions and explanatory diagrams in textbooks. The use of captions, colors, and diagrams is valued to facilitate understanding, while photographs remain essential for representing reality, despite being less frequently chosen. The research suggests that visual literacy in higher education is underdeveloped and that objective criteria for image selection are still limited. The need for further studies is reinforced to enhance students' visual interpretation skills and establish clearer criteria for the production of didactic materials, ensuring a more effective approach in academic training.