CURRICULAR INTEGRATION OF EXTENSION IN UNDERGRADUATE NURSING

CURRICULAR INTEGRATION OF EXSTRENGTHENING SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY IN HIGHER EDUCATION

Abstract

Introduction: At the Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC), the curricularization of extension, provided for in the guidelines regulated by Resolution n^o 01/2020/Undergraduate Chamber/Extension Chamber, seeks to integrate extension activities into teaching, promoting ethical, critical and socially committed training. In the Undergraduate Nursing Program at the UFSC, this initiative was developed as a strategy to enhance social responsibility and align academic training with community needs. Objective: To describe the process of construction and implementation of the curricularization of extension in the UFSC Undergraduate Nursing Program. Experience report: The experience involved collaboration among the course coordinators, the Structuring Teaching Core, and the Dean’s Office of Undergraduate Studies. Discussions in Undergraduate Forums were held to adapt the curriculum accordingly. The process included the gradual incorporation of extension activities starting from the first semester, blending theory and practice in real world contexts, such as health units and community settings. Curricularization was implemented across nine courses, allowing students to develop technical, ethical, and civic competencies. Students demonstrated increased engagement with social realities and the healthcare system, expanded dialogue with the community, and enhanced meaningful learning by connecting academic content to collective needs. Additionally, the process encouraged interdisciplinarity and improved students’ ability to effect social change. Conclusion:  The structured integration of extension into the Nursing curriculum has contributed to the comprehensive, critical, and socially responsible training of future professionals. Despite ongoing challenges, such as the need for resources and greater institutional recognition, curricularization strengthens the university's role as an agent of social transformation and reinforces the principle of the inseparability of teaching, research, and extension.