Exploring mathematical knowledge and practice in the production of pickling cucumbers in the town of Icaraí de Minas - MG

Abstract

This article investigates the identification and understanding of the mathematical knowledge and practices mobilized by family farmers from Icaraí de Minas-MG as producers of cucumbers for canning, highlighting their daily practices from the perspective of Ethnomathematics, Mathematical Modeling and the confluence between the two. The study adopts a qualitative approach in a field study, using semi-structured interviews and direct observations to collect information, which was analyzed using Content Analysis. The research reveals that farmers apply mathematical concepts such as geometry, proportion and arithmetic in an empirical way, adapted to their cultural context. Although some farmers have no formal schooling, they demonstrate skills in planning and financial calculations, using their own methods. The conclusion is that this knowledge and know-how should be valued, allowing for a dialog between traditional and academic knowledge.