Thinking the future: development of metrology education in Brazil

摘要

Brazilian reference documents to organize actions in metrology have chapters dedicated to the education which is described as lacking fundamental metrological concepts in many qualification areas and with incipient activities of specific teaching on the theme. Such documents highlight the challenge to strengthen the knowledge of Metrology. The objective of this study was to make a survey of educational activities described on websites of institutions participating in the quality infrastructure of BIPM member states in South America. This information allowed identifying actions to develop the metrology education in Brazil. The research was classified as exploratory with the qualitative approach. Three categories were set: "Qualification" (the presence-based training courses were the highest occurrence); "Materials" (Audiovisual materials were the most published); and "Others". Argentina was the country with the highest amount and diversity of activities. Some proposed actions were the translation of six materials; disclosure and distribution of 15 materials; extinction of the technical course in Metrology; organization of improvement/post-high school courses; feasibility of specialization qualification level; courses models of INTI's (undergraduate and doctorate levels); and events for teacher training. Moreover, this study offers subsidies to set the strategic guidelines to consolidate and develop a metrological culture and education in Brazil.