CONSUMPTION OR CONSUMERISM: THAT IS THE QUESTION! FINANCIAL EDUCATION FOR INTEGRATED SECONDARY EDUCATION

Abstract

Financial literacy (FL) is a crucial topic in the educational context, especially considering the increasing level of indebtedness among Brazilian teenagers. This study, conducted within the framework of the Graduate Program in Professional and Technological Education – National Network (ProfEPT), aimed to foster the practice of FL through an educational workshop focused on consumerism. A qualitative-quantitative approach was adopted, using questionnaires administered to second-year students enrolled in the Integrated High School with a Technical Course in Administration at the Federal Institute of the Triângulo Mineiro (IFTM). The students’ prior knowledge and learning outcomes after the workshop were assessed, with emphasis on strategies for conscious consumption and personal financial management. The methodology included an initial data survey via questionnaires, followed by the implementation of the pedagogical workshop. As an educational product, a digital booklet was developed to serve as a reference for ongoing learning. Results showed that FL can be effectively introduced during adolescence, leading to significant improvements in students’ financial awareness and behaviors. Moreover, students demonstrated enhanced abilities to plan and manage their personal expenses. The study concludes that financial literacy, when integrated into the school setting, promotes financial autonomy and conscious consumption, yielding positive effects on students' quality of life and their preparedness for labor market challenges. These findings reinforce the importance of early educational initiatives aimed at developing financial competencies from youth.