Generational knowledge and learning in the productive practices of traditional coastal communities, Brazilian Amazon

Abstract

The present study took place in traditional coastal communities located around and within the Marine Extractive Reserves (RESEX-Mar) of Tracuateua and Araí-Peroba, Northeast of Pará, Brazilian Amazon, in the period between 2019 and 2020, involving thirty families, whose self-sustaining activities depend on family farming, artisanal fishing and crab fishing. The aimed objectives were to investigate the generational knowledges and how descendants learn about them, considering the environmental productive practices of such traditional communities, as well as to reflect on the ways the transmission processes occur to the following generations. The employed method involved a qualitative approach, with field observation and interview techniques. In data collection, the following instruments were used: a script with semi-structured questions to conduct the interviews and field notes taken during observation periods. Data analysis was based on the organization, tabulation and treatment of the linguistic terms collected from the interviews with the support of graphics generated by the IRAMUTEQ Software. Subsequently, content analysis was applied. The results showed there are riches constituted from the existing traditional knowledge, mainly in family farming and artisanal fishing (fish and crab), which are taught and transmitted by families to new generations. Conclusively, the research reveals that in the relationship between human beings and nature there are feelings of belonging perceived from the interviewees' identities, adding symbols and meanings, which are experienced and respected by all.