NEA UFSCAR AND THE PEDAGOGY OF WALKING

METHODOLOGICAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE TRAINING OF POPULAR AGENTS OF AGROECOLOGY

Abstract

There is undeniable potential for agroecology as a form of agricultural production and peasant social reproduction, characterized by its counter-hegemonic nature and based on communal and solidarity values. Assuming that the popular education method can be combined with agroecological practice, this paper aims to provide a methodological contribution to the training of popular agents of agroecology, developed through a university extension experience conducted by the Center for Agroecology and Organic Production Studies (NEA) at the Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), São Carlos campus. Methodologically, the article is the result of an applied qualitative research, with participant observation and action research. To fulfill the proposed objective, the theme is approached in association with popular education as a praxis that strengthens the anti-systemic nature of agroecology. The conclusions indicate that the methodology developed to overcome the difficulties of remote training directed at a significant and heterogeneous audience was successful and managed to positively impact the territories where it was carried out through the implemented practical actions. Furthermore, the methodological contributions developed by the responsible team, particularly the pedagogy of walking, have the capacity for replication, either in whole or in part, in different locations, for the benefit of agroecology.