The Importance of scientific competitions

An analysis based on the Itabirana Mathematics Olympiad

Abstract

This work seeks to explore the contributions of scientific competitions to the personal and academic training of basic education students, especially Mathematics Olympiads, in the context of the Itabirana Mathematics Olympiad – IOM. The methodology used has a qualitative character and consists of analyzing the reports of students awarded at the IOM, which refers to the importance of participating in this and other knowledge Olympiads. Data was collected through a questionnaire made available digitally. The opportunities that these students had as a result of participating in these competitions were highlighted, in addition to other aspects considered relevant, in the view of the medal-winning students. The results indicate that several contributing factor were highlighted by the interviewed students, such as the development of logical-mathematical reasoning and increased interest in Mathematics; better understanding of Mathematics and its specifications; possibility of creating a favorable space for learning and teaching Mathematics; positive results in other areas of knowledge and opportunities obtained from participation in knowledge olympiads.