Expanding the dialogue on urban waters through digital tools

Abstract

This article is based on the premise that digital tools can contribute to enhancing the understanding of the physical characteristics of watersheds and water behavior, thus providing greater decision-making power regarding urban water management. The research, based on the Fazendo Chover and Águas no Cercadinho tools, aims to explore how these resources can facilitate the connection between technical-scientific knowledge and the everyday experiences of socio-spatial groups. Conducted in schools located in the Cercadinho sub-basin in Belo Horizonte, the study employed practical workshops to create physical materials, such as models, which served as the foundation for the development of the described digital tools. Furthermore, the article provides a detailed description of the stages involved in constructing these tools, explaining the software and methods used at each stage. The results suggest that the educational materials helped improve the understanding of water dynamics and encouraged greater popular participation in decisions concerning urban design and stormwater management. The research highlights the importance of continuous environmental education to foster a culture of self-management of water resources, contributing to the autonomy of communities in the preservation and recovery of sub-basins.