PROTÓTIPO DE CORAÇÃO DE MAMÍFERO EM PAPEL PARA O ENSINO DE ANATOMIA

Abstract

The teaching of anatomy constitutes an important resource for understanding concepts related to zoology, physiology, and evolution. However, in undergraduate Biology teacher education programs, the use of anatomical specimens or didactic models does not always occur adequately, due to factors such as the difficulty in obtaining and preserving biological material, limitations in laboratory infrastructure, the costs associated with acquiring commercial anatomical models, or sociopsychological factors related to students’ handling of specimens. In this context, the present study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of using recycled paper as a raw material for the construction of a three-dimensional prototype of a mammalian heart, employing the artisanal techniques of papier-mâché and paper layering. The methodology consisted of planning and constructing the prototype, including a description of the manufacturing stages and a subsequent analysis of the structural characteristics obtained. The results indicated that the properties of paper allow the modeling of complex anatomical structures, enabling the production of a low-cost, accessible, and reproducible didactic resource, representing a viable alternative to the exclusive use of biological specimens or commercial models in anatomy teaching. Furthermore, both the prototype and the techniques employed demonstrated pedagogical potential, as they may contribute to the study of the cardiovascular system and support the application of practical activities involving student participation in the construction of anatomical models.