Abstract:

This research is directed to the analysis of the use of the tablet mobile computer in favor of student motivation in learning genetics in proposed teaching-learning situations. Our theoretical framework was constituted primarily in Theory Activity and current research on mobile learning. A Teaching-Learning activity was realized and analyzed based on the Second Generation Activity Theory which consisted in the elaboration of 03 digital mind maps on genetic-related subject content using a tablet device. The participants in this research were 34 graduating year, high school students at the Colegio Cruzeiro do Sul high school; 02 researcher - professors and 02 computer technicians supplying technical support to carry out the activities. About 85% of the students agreed that the tablet motivated their genetics learning in the proposed situations. In general, the students highlighted motivational aspects such as increased incentive to research for more information, interaction with dynamic features that made the quest for additional knowledge more entertaining and stimulated further reaching results of the studied content. The data revealed great student satisfaction in tasks performed using the tablet, therefore making the process of teaching - learning more appealing.

Keywords:

Mobile learning, Tablet, Activity Theory, Genetics Teaching-learning.