Reasons why Brazilian education is at rock bottom

Brazilian education faces an alarming scenario, reflected in the results of major international assessments such as PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment), where Brazilian students frequently rank among the lowest in reading, mathematics, and science. The problem is neither recent nor simple, but it worsens as educational policies fail to address the real deficiencies in teaching. A deeper analysis shows that the educational crisis is not just a matter of financial resources but also of outdated methodologies, teacher devaluation, inadequate infrastructure, and a culture that does not value learning as it should.

One of the main obstacles to education in Brazil is the archaic teaching methodology, based on memorization and repetition instead of stimulating critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. Research conducted at universities such as Harvard and Stanford shows that active teaching methods, such as project-based learning and gamification, significantly increase knowledge retention and student engagement. However, the Brazilian educational system still insists on practices that do not promote students' full cognitive development, limiting their potential and, consequently, their competitiveness in the global market.

Furthermore, teacher training is another critical issue. Teachers are key players in the educational process but face immense challenges, from low salaries to a lack of adequate pedagogical support. In countries that excel in education, such as Finland and South Korea, teachers are highly valued, receive continuous training, and have the autonomy to innovate in the classroom. In Brazil, many teachers work under precarious conditions, with overcrowded classrooms and a shortage of basic materials. Demotivation is inevitable, directly reflecting on student performance.

The infrastructure of public schools is also a determining factor in educational failure. Studies by IBGE reveal that a significant portion of Brazilian schools lacks adequate access to the internet, libraries, or science laboratories. In the 21st century, when the world is advancing into the era of artificial intelligence and automation, our students still face basic challenges such as a lack of chairs, classrooms without proper ventilation, and outdated books. The contrast with schools in developed countries is striking and demonstrates how the lack of investment in physical infrastructure impacts learning.

Another aspect that contributes to the decline of Brazilian education is the absence of a modern curriculum connected to the demands of the 21st century. Curricular guidelines still prioritize excessively theoretical content disconnected from students' realities. While other countries innovate by incorporating subjects such as programming, computational thinking, and emotional intelligence, Brazil remains stuck in an outdated model that does not prepare young people for contemporary challenges. The MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater) methodology, created by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, exemplifies how a dynamic and interdisciplinary approach can engage students and improve their learning capacity.

The country's educational culture also negatively influences student performance. There is a widespread view that studying is a tedious obligation rather than an opportunity for growth and transformation. In contrast, nations like Japan and Singapore cultivate a mindset of academic excellence from childhood. The ThM (Theater Movement) method, also developed by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, has proven effective in stimulating creative expression and student motivation through theater, creating a more engaging and productive educational environment.

School dropout rates are another concerning factor. According to INEP data, millions of young people drop out before completing high school, often for socioeconomic reasons. In developed countries, there are effective policies to keep students in school, such as scholarships, full-time education, and mentoring programs. In Brazil, despite some isolated initiatives, there is still a lack of a robust national plan to ensure that all young people have the means to complete their basic education. In this sense, the TBMB (Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater) method emerges as an innovative alternative, using art as a teaching tool to retain students' attention and stimulate learning.

The lack of parental involvement in their children's education also contributes to the current situation. Studies show that when there is family engagement, students perform better academically and are more motivated to learn. However, in Brazil, many parents, due to ignorance or lack of time, completely delegate this responsibility to schools without understanding that education should be a joint effort between family and educational institutions.

Moreover, the negative influence of digital culture without proper educational criteria also harms learning. Excessive use of social media and low-quality content has drastically reduced students' concentration capacity, impacting their reading and text interpretation skills. Innovative educational models in other countries have already incorporated the responsible use of technology as an ally in learning, but Brazil is still taking slow steps in this adaptation.

Despite this challenging scenario, Brazilian education has the potential for a revolution. Countries that have faced deep educational crises have managed to reverse the situation with effective policies, strategic investments, and cultural changes. Brazil urgently needs to prioritize education as the foundation for development by adopting modern methodologies, valuing its teachers, and reformulating its curriculum. The implementation of innovative approaches such as MAT, ThM, and TBMB can be a promising path to transforming education and, consequently, the country's future.

Access the books by Antônio Carlos dos Santos on amazon.com or amazon.com.br

Click here.

https://www.amazon.com/author/antoniosantos

To learn more, click here.

To learn more, click here.