Relevância da pesquisa científica na prática docente

This text addresses the importance of scientific initiation research in teaching practice in Elementary Education. To this end, the methodology used was interviews with teachers and on-site observation at a Scientific Initiation Fair in the city of Portão/RS. As theoretical support, Varela and Maturana were used, reflecting on theories of knowledge and the relationship with paradigms, as well as the studies of Pedro Demo and Paulo Freire, especially regarding students' autonomy in the face of research challenges. In practice, it was observed that both teachers and students are motivated and committed to the processes developed in the search for alternatives that can answer the most varied questions guiding their investigations. Furthermore, the themes addressed by the students demonstrate an interest in addressing social, cultural and environmental issues, contributing to the community. Therefore, we can conclude that scientific initiation research as a teaching practice is extremely relevant for teaching/learning.