INQUIRY-BASED LEARNING

 

  1. Form a question
  2. Make a plan
  3. Do the investigation
  4. Record and report
  5. Reflect, revisit, and plan again

 

 
Inquiry is an approach to learning that involves a process of exploring the natural or material world, and that leads to asking questions, making discoveries, and rigorously testing those discoveries in the search for new understanding.

Inquiry, as it relates to science education, should mirror as closely as possible
the enterprise of doing real science.

 An old adage states: "Tell me and I forget, show me and I remember, involve me and I understand."

The last part of this statement is the essence of inquiry-based learning.

 Inquiry implies involvement that leads to understanding. Furthermore, involvement in learning implies possessing skills and attitudes that permit you to seek resolutions to questions and issues while you construct new knowledge.

 

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What is inquiry-Based Learning?

Inquiry-based learning has become very popular in teaching today. It is based on the scientific method and works very well in developing critical thinking and problem solving skills. It is student centered and requires students to conduct investigations independent of the teacher, unless otherwise directed or guided through the process of discovery.

A student-centered, active learning approach focusing on questioning, critical thinking, and problem-solving. It's associated with the idea "involve me and I understand."

 

 

 

 

Scientific Method and Inquiry

The scientific method has a set of rigid steps students follow as they begin an investigation.
These steps are:

  • Asking Questions
  • Looking at Prior at Research
  • Constructing a Hypothesis
  • Conducting the Experiment
  • Analyzing Data
  • Reporting Findings

Inquiry based learning differs from the scientific method, because students do not need to start with asking questions. They can jump into the scientific method anywhere to begin their research.

 

 

 

Problem Based
Learning and Inquiry

Problem based learning (PBL) is based on students who are provided a scenario surrounding a problem and they follow the scientific method closely. The PBL steps are:

  • Analyze Problem Scenario
  • List what is Known about the Problem
  • Develop a Problem Statement
  • List what is Needed to Solve the Problem
  • List Possible Actions Necessary to Solve the Problem
  • Analyze Information Collected about the Problem
  • Report Findings

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    		 Because project learning is filled with active and engaged learning, it inspires students to obtain a deeper knowledge of the subjects they're studying. Research also indicates that students are more likely to retain the knowledge gained through this approach far more readily than through traditional textbook-centered learning. In addition, students develop confidence and self-direction as they move through both team-based and independent work.In the process of completing their projects, students also hone their organizational and research skills, develop better communication with their peers and adults, and often work within their community while seeing the positive effect of their work.
    Cone of Learning -
    (Edgar Dale)    		 10 Tips for Inquiry-Based Learning
    (Smartboard transparent)    		 Inquiry-Based Learning - video Inquiry Teaching - video
    *Using KWL to Introduce Inquiry

    		 20 Questions to ask Students in Science Projects Journey-North K-8 Methods Inquiry Project

    Class Wiki

     

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    INQUIRY BASED
    TRADITIONAL
    Principle Learning Theory Constructivism Behaviorism
    Student Participation Active Passive
    Student Involvement in Outcomes Increased Responsibility Decreased Responsibility
    Student Role Problem solver Direction follower
    Curriculum Goals Process oriented Product oriented
    Teachers Role Guide/facilitator Director/ transmitter

     

     

     

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    Present: Inquiry Learning
    Teaching Principles for Inquiry

    Inquiry Learning  - video

    *Inquiry-based Learning

    Inquiry-based Learning Workshop

    		 Inquiry Learning-ppt
    Watch Workshop 1:  "What is Inquiry and Why Do it?" and complete worksheet.  Click on Inquiry Learning  - video

    "Inquiry Learning" Videos

    Inquiry and Problem-Based Learning - videos
    *Inquiry-based Science Inquiry into the
    Zen of Wormness    		 Why Teach Project Learning? Inquiry-based Learning