Geoeducation in the context of the Seridó Geopark: the board game as a teaching resource in Geography teaching
Board Game; Seridó Geopark; Geographic Education; Geoeducation.
This study investigates the pedagogical potential of the board game "Geoparque Seridó" as an innovative didactic resource for teaching Geography in the early years of elementary education, within the framework of geographic education guided by geoeducation. Based on the principles of active methodologies and critical environmental education, the research proposes the development and implementation of a game that integrates knowledge about geodiversity, geoconservation, and sustainability in the context of the Seridó Geopark territory in Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. The proposal is grounded in the assumption that playful approaches enhance the meaningful learning of complex geographic concepts, making them tangible for young learners. Methodologically, the study combines a theoretical review of geoeducation, contextualized education, and the geoheritage of the Seridó Geopark. The findings indicate that the game broadens students' understanding of the society-nature interaction in the semi-arid region of Rio Grande do Norte; it fosters collaborative skills by simulating decision-making processes on conservation issues; and it serves as a bridge between curriculum content and local reality. The analysis further shows how playfulness facilitates the comprehension of geological processes and their connection to regional environmental issues, such as desertification. The study concludes that the experience validates the game as an effective tool for geoeducation, fulfilling three main functions: (1) popularizing geoeducation through accessible language; (2) strengthening students’ emotional connection to natural heritage; and (3) providing a replicable methodology for schools in the region. The research demonstrates how educational technologies applied to Geography teaching can contribute both to civic education and to sustainable territorial development.