Inquiry-based Learning
Overview
Inquiry-based learning is centered around open-ended questions posed by instructors and/or the learners themselves and fosters a Learner Mindset. During inquiry-based learning, instructors can foster learner autonomy by designing learning experiences centered on meaningful questions in which students locate, analyze, and present relevant information on their own or in small groups. Instructors model and incorporate content texts during the inquiry process to help learners explore learning targets and goals. This type of instructional approach supports and encourages Self-regulation and allows learners to adapt their learning plans according to their needs and interests. Motivation may also increase as learners feel the implications of their autonomy in the learning environment.
Use It In Your Learning Environment
Throughout inquiry-based learning, instructors play a crucial role by providing scaffolds and models for learners to follow as they navigate texts to illuminate the central question. This will also limit learner frustration throughout the inquiry process as they come to understand the process and necessary actions through modeling. Instructor presence is important for further questions during the process to promote critical thinking, Problem Solving, and stimulate the question generation process. Four types of inquiry are often utilized for instruction: confirmation inquiry, structured inquiry, guided inquiry, and open inquiry.
Product developers can enrich online platforms for instructors by creating forums in which instructors can create a map for inquiry. This map can include suggested activities and actions to help instructors further scaffold the inquiry experience. Developers can also provide the capability for instructors to embed questions within texts and allow learners to ask their own questions of each other and the larger community.
Additional Resources
Additional examples, research, and professional development. These resources are possible representations of this strategy, not endorsements.
Factors Supported by this Strategy
More Active Learning Strategies
Experts can answer questions and provide vocabulary, processes, feedback, and scaffolds to help learners deepen their understanding.
Case studies support authentic, active learning experiences centered around real world situations that present an account of a particular set of circumstances for learners to engage with.
When learners process and express information visually, they are activating more cognitive processes while Problem Solving.
When preparing for and executing a debate, learners analyze, form, and express verbal arguments, fostering their critical thinking skills, an essential component of Problem Solving.
Debriefing is the intentional discussion immediately following a learning experience which is especially important after simulation-based learning.
Analyzing errors is especially beneficial in helping learners develop a Learner Mindset and critical thinking skills, which are a component of Problem Solving.
Networking and supporting adult learners in expanding their social networks provide access to additional resources and Social Supports, which can impact their trajectory and Motivation.
Experiential learning is learning by doing, which may include self-directed learning activities.
Giving learners the opportunity to explain their thinking process aloud helps them to solidify their comprehension, and move knowledge into their Long-term Memory.
Game-based learning is an active learning experience with clear objectives and measurable outcomes designed to be intrinsically game-like.
For adults, the Composition process can become more robust when learners can express ideas through multiple media, which includes visual, audio, and digital production.
Effective note-taking during lectures or reading directs learners' Attention to the relevant information, helping them identify key concepts, understand links between ideas and retain information better in their Long-term Memory.
The opportunity to observe peers or experts in action or participate in shadowing can provide a unique and authentic learning experience that often involves questioning, metacognitive thinking, and Problem Solving while providing Social Supports.
When learners provide constructive feedback on each other's work, they reflect on their own understanding, learn to give relevant suggestions, receive specific ways to improve, and engage in Metacognition.
Problem-based learning (PBL) is a learner-centered multidisciplinary approach focused on real world applications using active learning methods.
Simulations and immersive virtual environments provide authentic learning at a level that can spark curiosity and deeper understanding by engaging multiple senses in exploration.
Skills sprints are focused, real world learning experiences for teams in which participants learn new skills while directly designing, developing, or delivering something to their organization.
Analyzing short video clips, replays of important aspects, and videos of oneself applying what has been learned can improve Metacognition and Long-term Memory while fostering a Learner Mindset.
Analyzing and discussing solutions to problems helps students develop a deeper understanding of Problem Solving processes and Numeracy skills.
