Biomecânica do movimento humano: Analisando o uso da física através do ritmo amazônico Tecnomelody

Abstract

The overall objective of this research is to analyze the interaction between the biomechanics of human movement and the Amazonian rhythm Tecnomelody through the teaching of physics, raising awareness about how to correctly apply the concepts of torque, balance, and leverage in everyday situations and investigating whether this rhythm can be used as an experimental tool to understand Newton's three laws. It is assumed that physics, often perceived by students as a difficult subject to understand and distant from reality, can be significantly brought closer to their daily lives through familiar cultural elements. The Tecnomelody rhythm, deeply rooted in northern culture and characterized by fast spins and dynamic movements, presents itself as a living laboratory for the observation and application of principles of classical mechanics. The study, which was qualitative and exploratory in nature, was developed as part of the “IFdance: ballroom dancing” teaching project at the Federal Institute of Amapá (IFAP), Macapá Campus. The participants were 12 higher education students who voluntarily took part in a specially designed 18-hour teaching sequence. From a theoretical point of view, it was based on the work of researchers such as Santana (2021), Vieira (2015), Ausebel (2003), and Carvalho Júnior (2011); The pedagogical intervention consisted of integrating theoretical classes on biomechanical concepts with the practice of partner dancing, using Tecnomelody movements to illustrate and experience these concepts. Data collection was based on the application of two questionnaires, one before and one after the teaching sequence, complemented by systematic observations recorded in images and notes. Data analysis showed remarkable progress among participants. In the initial questionnaire, concepts such as torque and leverage were mostly unknown or vaguely understood, but in the final questionnaire, participants not only defined these concepts more accurately, but were also able to identify them better and exemplify them in everyday situations and dance movements. The association between Newton's Laws and the execution of Tecnomelody's turns and steps has been widely recognized, validating rhythm as an effective experimental tool. Furthermore, it pointed to secondary benefits such as the development of body balance, motor coordination, self-confidence, and social interaction, factors that contributed to a more relaxed, productive, and meaningful learning environment. It was concluded that the proposed approach, which combines physics, biomechanics, and the regional culture of Tecnomelody, proved highly effective in promoting meaningful learning. The strategy not only facilitated the understanding of complex physics content, demystifying the discipline, but also played an important role in valuing Amazonian cultural heritage. The work therefore reinforces the viability and power of teaching methodologies that start from the student's prior knowledge and cultural context, suggesting its extension to other themes and rhythms.