Da licenciatura para indústria: Uma análise de contexto

Abstract

The Federal Technological University of Paraná (UTFPR) is dedicated to promoting technological education of excellence, integrating theory and practice, with special emphasis on ethical and competent teacher training, especially for evening students, many of whom are workers who see industry as a source of income. The Chemistry degree course has had 82 graduates since 2011, with 136 students currently enrolled, 106 of whom are in good standing. Between 2011 and 2023, 53 students undertook paid internships in industry, highlighting the importance of assessing theoretical and practical skills for professional integration in the industrial sector. The general objective of this study is to analyze the interest profile of students on the Chemistry degree course at UTFPR, Londrina/PR campus, and its relationship with integration into industry. The specific objectives include evaluating the context of previous knowledge and the knowledge developed during the course, with a view to a possible reformulation of the optional curricular menu to consolidate theoretical knowledge. In addition, the aim is to propose an alternative to meet local industrial demand, offering chemistry graduates more effective training in sectors such as quality control, management of quality systems, sustainability, among others, in line with the competencies defined by the Regional Chemistry Council. The research adopts a qualitative approach to understand the experiences of students and professionals on the Chemistry degree course at UTFPR, Londrina/PR campus, in relation to local and regional opportunities. Using stratified convenience sampling, it seeks proportional representativeness and efficiency in exploratory studies. Data collection includes information from UTFPR's Computerized System, questionnaires sent to students about industrial experiences and to industries about expectations. Based on this data and the researcher's practical experience, an optional menu is proposed for the course, in line with the demands of the market and the needs of the students. It is clear that the students' previous knowledge is weak and that they need internal training in companies. The suggestion is to implement optional subjects to meet the demands of industry and the students.