Extensão universitária e transformações socioespaciais: possíveis contribuições do Curso Nacional de Especialização em Extensão Universitária (Minas Gerais, 2013)

Abstract

This investigation aimed to study possible contributions from university extension to local de velopment. It was done through analysis of a sample of the first National Specialization Course in University Extension (CNEEU) monographs in Minas Gerais, Brazil, in 2013. As the result of a partnership among Minas Gerais Research Support Foundation (FAPEMIG), Forum of Pro-Rectors for Extension of Brazilian Public Universities (FORPROEX), National Forum for Extension and Community Action of Universities and Community in Higher Education Insti tutions (FOREXT), and National Forum for Extension in Private Higher Education Institutions (FOREXP). Therefore the Specialization Course sought to strengthen extension action in theo retical-conceptual, political, methodological, evaluation, and academic management fields. This investigation is justified by providing an overview of extension agents’ practices and stu dies from different regional capillarities and from public, private and community institutions. This research presents historical background, legal and conceptual foundations of university extension, parameters of innovation, and development at multiple spatial scales. In methodolo gical terms, Phenomenographic approach was used, in a phenomenological, descriptive and qualitative approach, by using bibliographic, documentary, electronic sources and field rese arch. The extension agents’ experiences, from diversified regional capillarities, revealed diffe rent knowledge from those prevailing in academic spaces. Due to the geographical context in which the subject, the actors involved, and on-going partnerships belong, significant potentials for socio-spatial transformations emerge