Deconstructing curricular structures: an analysis of Architecture and Urbanism programs in Minas Gerais, using ENADE 2019 results

uma análise dos cursos de Arquitetura e Urbanismo em Minas Gerais a partir do ENADE 2019

Abstract

The curricular structure is an important tool for organizing students' academic paths. Traditionally, curricula are a list of interdependent and organized contents, connected to the graduate’s professional practice, defined by the hours allocated to each discipline. Its structure is defined by a set of prerequisites, where basic content is presented first, gradually leading to more complex and broad thinking. However, students often have different backgrounds and experiences, which result in diverse academic journeys. In this sense, curricular flexibility can be an important element in enabling students' adaptation to the course and allowing for deeper and broader learning, according to their interests. This topic was investigated through the analysis of curricular structures and course pedagogic project, assessing their performance based on data obtained during ENADE 2019 for Architecture and Urbanism courses, in the state of Minas Gerais, which received scores of 4 and 5. Findings show that more flexible curricular structures produced similar or superior objective results in ENADE, compared to more rigid projects, and that flexibility does not create content gaps in students' education. Furthermore, it was noted that more flexible structures lead to greater student engagement in courses and in the overall pedagogical process.