Educação ambiental no Jardim Botânico de Americana: proposta de visitação guiada acessível para surdos

Abstract

Discussions regarding environmental education in non-formal spaces combined with the accessible participation of deaf individuals remain a recent topic with limited research published. The issue addressed in this study stems from the lack of projects directly related to accessible educational guided tours in Botanical Gardens with environmental information that enable the participation and understanding of the themes by the diverse population of deaf individuals, considering the various forms of comprehension and communication. The primary objective of this research was to create and organize an accessible guided tour script for deaf individuals at the Botanical Garden of Americana, containing specific information about trees through environmental education. The methodology adopted included a bibliographic review and discussions with key authors in the chosen fields, data collection regarding accessibility in botanical gardens, and identifying inclusive needs. An accessible script was created for deaf individuals for a guided tour in the Botanical Garden, aiming to address biodiversity and trees through the use of educational materials such as: five tree identification signs with their names and images, signs in Brazilian Sign Language (Libras), and QR Codes linking to videos in Libras with captions; a memory game in Libras about trees; a biodiversity suitcase containing natural elements of trees for tactile interaction; an explanatory folder with information on tree characteristics, images, and a QR code for a Libras video; and explanatory Libras videos available on YouTube. As a result, it was possible to expand the discussion on the topic of environmental education in non-formal spaces with accessibility for deaf individuals, which is recent and innovative. Additionally, materials in Libras and specific vocabulary on the chosen trees were developed, alongside visual materials and dynamic Libras videos that sought to promote greater autonomy for deaf visitors and their communication, for an inclusive educational experience.