UNIVERSITY EXTENSION AND INSTITUTIONAL CARE: PARTICIPATORY SOCIAL DIAGNOSIS IN THE FLORESCER PROJECT

Abstract

This study presents and analyzes the participatory social diagnosis carried out within the scope of the Florescer Extension Project, developed by master's students from the Postgraduate Program in Regional Development at FACCAT, based on the curricular component Education and Regional Development, under the guidance of the component's professor, who is also the author of this article. The diagnosis took place in an institution that shelters adolescents in the Paranhana Valley, Rio Grande do Sul, and sought to understand the perceptions of social educators regarding challenges, socio-educational demands, and institutional conditions that affect the development of those sheltered. The qualitative and descriptive-analytical research used a literature review, a diagnostic questionnaire, an Empathy Map, participant observation, and collective activities. The results indicated emotional vulnerabilities, weakened family ties, school difficulties, and insecurities about the future, supporting extension interventions focused on listening, self-esteem, conflict mediation, life projects, and youth empowerment.