Educação Financeira nas escolas públicas e privadas de Maceió

Abstract

This study analyzes the level of financial literacy of high school students in public and private schools in Maceió, Alagoas, focusing on the dimensions of attitude, behavior, and financial knowledge. Using a quantitative approach, a survey used questionnaires administered to 802 students, selected based on their schools’ performance in the National High School Exam (ENEM). The results indicated significant disparities between the groups studied. While students from private schools acquired greater familiarity with financial concepts and best financial management practices, those from public schools were related to savings and understanding concepts such as interest and the time value of money, reflecting economic limitations and restricted access to financial information. It is concluded that the inclusion of financial education in the school curriculum is essential to mitigate inequalities and empower young people to make conscious and sustainable financial decisions. In addition, the use of interactive methodologies, such as games and digital technologies, is recommended to facilitate learning and stimulate student engagement.