Objects for mathematical knowledge teaching: material culture contributions in primary schools (1903-1928)

Abstract

The main objective of this paper is to analyze the appropriation and use of learning objects related to mathematical knowledge in the renewing proposal of primary schools in the state of Paraná during the First Republic period. The study of scholarly material is considered an important element for historical analysis, in special in the Education History since it allows the interpretation of certain learning objects based in the appropriation concept (CHARTIER, 1990). In this perspective, it guides the analysis about how the use and material appropriation occurred in practice, which had as main educational goal the assistance of  mathematical tuition, for instance. Therefore, public instruction reports, education legislation, notebooks, photographies and magazines were utilized as sources. It was verified, in one hand, the need of implantation of new mathematical knowledge teaching methods in primary schools of Paraná state. On the other hand, it is clear the requirement of investments for the acquisition of scholarly materials necessary for Arithmetic, Geometry and Drawing and mainly its use and appropriation in the school dynamic culture.