GLICOGOTAS: INTEGRATING ARTSCIENCE AND OPEN SCIENCE IN THE DESIGN OF A CHARACTER UNIVERSE FOR EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES ON TYPE 1 DIABETES MELLITUS

Abstract

This study aimed to describe the creation of a narrative universe of original characters conceived as the structural foundation for the development of educational resources and science communication initiatives on Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). The methodology included a literature review in scientific databases and institutional platforms, mapping of children's books and illustrated educational materials on T1DM published between 2011 and 2024 in Portuguese and English, digital design and illustration of the characters using a graphics tablet, and the expansion of the character universe into educational resources. A total of 12 characters were created, including 10 primary and 2 secondary characters, in which organs, hormones, medical devices, symptoms, and physiological processes were personified through visual metaphors corresponding to their biological or functional properties. The narrative universe was implemented across four educational formats: a handmade sensory felt book, an illustrated booklet published with an ISBN and freely available, a prototype mobile application registered with the Brazilian National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) comprising 90 screens and six modules, and a series of comic strips and animated content distributed through social media. The characters functioned as educational resources, affective mediators, and a shared language among children, families, and healthcare professionals. It is concluded that the development of a coherent, freely accessible narrative universe integrating science and art represents a valuable strategy for health educommunication.