What is inquiry-based learning? Types, advantages, examples. (2023)

Are you looking for a teaching strategy that involves your students in the learning process? Would you like them to be able to ask questions and investigate real world problems? If this is the case, you should consider using inquiry-based learning in your classroom.

Inquiry-based learning is a teaching technique that encourages students to ask questions and investigate real-world problems. This type of learning has many benefits and can be used in a variety of subject areas.

This blog post discusses the benefits of inquiry-based learning and provides some strategies, tips, and models to use in the classroom. But first, let's take a closer look at what inquiry-based learning is.

Diving,

  • What is inquiry-based learning?
  • Types of inquiry-based learning
  • Benefits of inquiry-based learning
  • Inquiry-Based Learning Examples
  • Strategies for implementing inquiry-based learning in the classroom
  • Four models to use in the classroom.
  • frequent questions

What is inquiry-based learning?

What is inquiry-based learning? Types, advantages, examples. (1)

Inquiry-based learning is a student-centered teaching method that encourages students to ask questions and investigate real-world problems. In this type of learning environment, students are actively involved in the learning process and have the opportunity to follow their natural curiosity.

This type of learning is often hands-on and allows students to connect what they are learning in the classroom with the real world. Inquiry-based learning has been shown to improve critical thinking skills, problem-solving skills, and creativity.

The 4 Types of Inquiry-Based Learning

What is inquiry-based learning? Types, advantages, examples. (2)

They existfour typesDemand-based learning:

1.The Structured Query Approach

The structured inquiry approach is a sequential process that helps students learn how to ask questions and examine real-world problems. This type of inquiry-based learning is commonly used in science education, where students are given a problem to investigate and taught how to use the scientific process to find a solution.

2.The open research approach

The open inquiry approach is a freer approach to inquiry-based learning. In this type of learning environment, students are free to explore their interests and ask questions about the subject they are studying. This type of inquiry-based learning is often used in humanities classes, where students are asked to delve into a topic and discuss different points of view.

3.The problem-based research approach

A problem-based inquiry approach is a problem-solving approach to inquiry-based learning. With this type of approach, students are given a real world problem to solve. This type of inquiry-based learning is commonly used in math and engineering classes, where students are challenged to apply what they have learned to solve a real-world problem.

(Video) What is Inquiry-Based Learning?

4.The guided inquiry approach

The inquiry-based approach is a teacher-directed approach to inquiry-based learning. In this type of approach, the teacher guides students through the inquiry process, helping them ask questions and find solutions to real-world problems. This type of inquiry-based learning is commonly used in middle and high school classrooms.

Now that we better understand the different types of inquiry-based learning, let's take a look at the benefits.

Benefits of inquiry-based learning

What is inquiry-based learning? Types, advantages, examples. (3)

With so many benefits, it's no wonder inquiry-based learning has become one of thepopular method of teaching. The benefits of inquiry-based learning include:

1. Encourages critical thinking

Inquiry-based learning encourages students to think critically about the information presented to them. You are invited to question the information and develop your own solutions. This type of learning helps students develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

2. Improve problem-solving skills

Inquiry-based learning helps students develop problem-solving skills. When given the opportunity to examine real world problems, they are forced to think outside the box and come up with their own solutions. This is an important skill that will help them in their future careers.

3. Encourage creativity

This learning concept promotes creativity. When students are given the opportunity to independently investigate a problem, they often come up with creative solutions. Because no particular way of thinking forces them to do it.

4. Improve communication skills

It also helps students to improve their communication skills. When working on a problem, they often have to explain their thoughts and ideas to others. This helps them learn how to communicate effectively with others.

5. Connect learning with the real world

Inquiry-based learning helps connect learning to the real world. When students can examine problems that exist in the real world, they can see how relevant what they are learning is in the classroom. This also helps them develop a better understanding of the material.

6. Helps students understand complex problems

Inquiry-based learning can also help students understand complex topics. If they can explore these topics in a hands-on setting, they can learn about them in more meaningful ways.

7. Promotes engaged learning

Finally, this type of learning encourages engaged learning. When students are actively engaged in the learning process, they are more likely to retain information. This is because they are involved in what they do.

(Video) What is Inquiry-Based Learning?

Inquiry-Based Learning Examples

What is inquiry-based learning? Types, advantages, examples. (4)

Now that we've seen the benefits of inquiry-based learning, let's look at some examples.

1. Scientific experiments

One way to incorporate inquiry-based learning into your classroom is to give students the opportunity to conduct experiments. This will encourage them to ask questions and think critically about the results.

2. Excursions

Another way to encourage inquiry-based learning is to take students on field trips. This allows them to examine real world problems and see how relevant what they are learning is in the classroom.

3. Classroom discussions

Classroom discussions are another great way to encourage this type of learning. When students discuss a topic, they are forced to think critically about both sides of the argument.

4. Projects

Projects are another great way to encourage inquiry-based learning. When students have the opportunity to work on a project related to the topic they are studying, they are more likely to learn and remember the information.

5. Group work

When students work in groups, they can share their ideas and thoughts with others. This will help them better understand the material.

Strategies and tips for implementing inquiry-based learning

What is inquiry-based learning? Types, advantages, examples. (5)

Now that we've seen the benefits of inquiry-based learning and some examples, let's look at someSurvey-Based Strategiesand tips to use in your lessons.

1. Start with a question

The best way to start a question-based lesson is to ask a question. This gets students thinking about the topic and encourages them to ask their own questions.

2. Allow browsing

After asking a question, let students explore the topic on their own. This will help them better understand the material.

(Video) Inquiry Based Learning - Concept and Examples

3. Encourage discussion

Encourage students to discuss their ideas among themselves. This will help them develop a better understanding of the material.

4. Provide resources

Be sure to provide students with resources to engage with the topic. This will help them develop a better understanding. Teachers can also access online learning platforms such asSplashAprender, which contribute even more to improve the knowledge of the concepts.

5. Summarize what you have learned

At the end of the lesson, summarize what you have learned. This helps students remember the information.

You can use different models to encourage inquiry-based learning in your classroom. It is important that you actively involve students in the learning process. Let's take a look at some templates you can use.

Four models to use in the classroom.

Now that we have discussed the benefits of inquiry-based learning and some strategies for implementing it in your organizationclassroomLet's take a look at four templates you can use.

1. The question template

The question model is one of the most basic models for inquiry-based learning. It is about asking students questions about the topic you are teaching. This should encourage them to think critically about the material.

2. The problem-based learning model

The problem-based learning model is another excellent option for inquiry-based learning. This model consists of giving students a problem to solve. You need to think critically about the problem and find a solution.

3. The project-based learning model

project-based learningIt is a great way for students to explore a topic in depth. In this model, you give students a project to work on that is related to the topic you are teaching.

4. The voting cycle model

The inquiry cycle template allows students to ask questions, explore a topic, and share their findings. This template allows students to explore a topic in depth and share their findings with others.

Let's get involved!

Inquiry-based learning is a teaching technique that encourages students to ask questions and explore their answers. Thisway to learnIt has many benefits for both students and teachers. In this article, we look at some of the key benefits of inquiry-based learning and strategies you can start using in your own classroom. We hope you will be encouraged to try it!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How important is inquiry-based learning?

Inquiry-based learning is important because it allows students to explore and ask questions about the world around them. This learning style helps students develop critical thinking and problem solving skills.

(Video) What is inquiry based learning?

What is the definition of inquiry-based learning?

Inquiry-based learning is a type of active learning that encourages students to ask questions, investigate, and explore new ideas. This approach to learning helps students develop critical thinking, problem solving, and research skills.

What role do students play in inquiry-based learning?

In inquiry-based learning, students assume the role of investigators. You are encouraged to ask questions and explore new ideas. Students also have the opportunity to share their discoveries with their peers and learn from each other.

How do you plan a question-based lesson?

Inquiry-based teaching is usually designed around a central question or problem. From there, teachers can provide resources and frameworks to help students explore the topic. It is important to leave space for students to explore and allow them to ask their own questions.

What are the five key questions of the study?

The 5 key questions of the study are:

  • Was?
  • ¿Y?
  • Now what?
  • How?
  • Why?

Do inquiry-based and project-based learning have to be the same?

No, inquiry-based and project-based learning are two different approaches. Inquiry-based learning focuses on student-led inquiry and exploration.project-based learningfocuses on students working together to complete a real world project. However, both approaches can include elements of investigation and problem solving.

(Video) EP69: Examples of Inquiry-Based Learning Activities

FAQs

What are the advantages inquiry-based learning? ›

Students can improve certain transferable skills through inquiry-based learning, many of which relate to initiative and self-direction. This is evident when examining the steps of the inquiry process. Students learn how to ask questions, investigate, discuss, collaborate, cooperate and reach their own conclusions.

What is inquiry-based learning give examples? ›

Inquiry-based learning is a learning and teaching strategy where students construct knowledge through a process of observation, investigation, and discovery. Examples of inquiry-based learning include observational field trips, science experiments, and hypothesis-based research projects.

What is inquiry-based learning and its types? ›

The classroom becomes a space for student-led exploration -- they ask questions and investigate and research in order to answer them. Inquiry-based learning has four types: confirmation, structured, guided, and open inquiry, and these student-led learning methods can be used for all subjects, from K-12 to higher ed.

What is inquiry-based learning in your own words? ›

Inquiry-based learning is a learning process that engages students by making real-world connections through exploration and high-level questioning. It is an approach to learning that encourages students to engage in problem-solving and experiential learning.

What are the 3 benefits of inquiry-based learning? ›

Through inquiry-based learning, students build their comprehension, critical thinking and communication skills.

What is an example of inquiry? ›

The board ordered an inquiry to determine whether the rules had been followed. Further inquiry showed that he had visited the city twice before. The police are pursuing a new line of inquiry.

What is an example of an inquiry-based learning question? ›

Examples Of Inquiry-Based Learning Questions

What do I want to know about this topic? How do I know I know it? What kinds of resources might help? How do I know the info is valid?

What are the 4 levels of inquiry-based learning? ›

Luckily, there are many levels of inquiry that students can progress through as they move toward deeper scientific thinking. We've found a four-level continuum—confirmation, structured, guided, open—to be useful in classifying the levels of inquiry in an activity (Figure 1).

What are some examples of inquiry questions for teachers? ›

Is there something I need to change about how I teach them? What elements of my teaching practice do I need to alter to try to better meet the needs of my students? How can I modify my teaching approach? What am I going to do differently in my teaching of the target group to get the desired shift in their learning?

What is example based learning? ›

Example-based learning is an instructional method that can help foster clinical reasoning by providing learners with examples of clinical cases and their management [4,5]. Example-based learning has been shown to be more effective when learners self-explain the material being learned [6].

What is inquiry-based learning and why is it important? ›

An inquiry-based learning approach lets students share their own ideas and questions about a topic. This helps foster more curiosity about the material and teaches skills students can use to continue exploring topics they are interested in.

What are the 3 types of inquiry? ›

There are four forms of inquiry that are commonly used in inquiry-based instruction:
  • Confirmation inquiry. Learners are given a question, as well as a method, to which the end result is already known. ...
  • Structured inquiry. ...
  • Guided inquiry. ...
  • Open inquiry.
Jun 18, 2014

What is inquiry in your own definition? ›

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 testing those discoveries in the search for new understanding.

What is the main goal of inquiry-based learning? ›

The overall goal of an inquiry-based approach is for students to make meaning of what they are learning about and to understand how a concept works in a real-world context. The inquiry approach is sometimes known as project-based or experiential learning.

Why is inquiry important? ›

Through inquiry, students engage in research around interesting ideas and essential questions. Questioning, critical thinking, and the creative development of new knowledge through inquiry are as important (if not more so) to learning as information finding through research.

What are the skills of inquiry-based learning? ›

Inquiry-based learning develops students' critical thinking skills because it helps students to develop interpreting, analyzing, evaluating, inferring, explaining, and self-regulation skills which are the core critical thinking skills (Facione, 2011; Facione & Facione, 1994; Hilsdon, 2010).

Which would be good example of a guided inquiry lesson? ›

In the guided inquiry example of boiling water, the teacher knows that she wants students to understand what happens when water boils. She creates a question that will guide students to an outcome already known to them. The student-driven inquiry is what happens after the guided inquiry.

What are the 5 elements of inquiry? ›

There are five elements of inquiry-based learning. The five components include: Essential Questions, Student Engagement, Cooperative Interaction, Performance Evaluation, and Variety of Responses.

What are the five main areas of inquiry? ›

We identified five general inquiry phases: Orientation, Conceptualization, Investigation, Conclusion, and Discussion. Our inquiry framework can be flexibly applied to build different pathways between 9 inquiry phases and sub-phases.

What are the 6 units of inquiry? ›

There are six units of inquiry at each grade level, under the following transdisciplinary themes:
  • Who we are.
  • Where we are in place and time.
  • How we express ourselves.
  • How the world works.
  • How we organize ourselves.
  • Sharing the planet.

What makes a good inquiry? ›

A great inquiry-based question

addresses an authentic problem or issue. is complex and requires multiple levels of analysis. requires the use of primary / secondary sources to answer it. requires the use of historical thinking skills such as sourcing and contextualizing.

How do you write an inquiry-based lesson plan? ›

The 5-Step Inquiry Lesson Plan
  1. Step 1: Connect with and question the content as a person, not as a teacher. ...
  2. Step 2: Get clear on the goals and assessments. ...
  3. Step 3: Design the lesson and plot questions. ...
  4. Step 4: Check for questions, voice, and choice. ...
  5. A Note about Unit Planning. ...
  6. Great Questions. ...
  7. Step 5: Rapidly reflect.
Dec 20, 2017

What are positive inquiry questions? ›

Succinctly put, an appreciative or positive question is: “A question that seeks to uncover and bring out the best in a person, a situation or an organization.”

What are 3 types of learning explain with examples? ›

3 Different Learning Styles and How to Use Them in Your Career
  • Auditory learners. Auditory learners take in information through listening and speaking. ...
  • Visual learners. These accounting and finance professionals best absorb information when they see the material being presented. ...
  • Tactile learners.
Aug 5, 2016

What are the benefits of using examples? ›

Examples make statements clearer, give readers more information, and decrease the chances that the fact or idea to be wrongly applied to real-life situations.

Do examples help learning? ›

Examples and illustrations are powerful ways to broaden and deepen student learning. One of the challenges facing teachers is selecting the most effective examples and knowing when and how to best use them.

What is the impact of inquiry-based learning? ›

Inquiry-based learning allows students to work with peers, collaborate, and learn communication skills. These methods allow students to construct their own knowledge, which leads to better retention of science concepts and greater involvement in the learning process.

How does inquiry-based learning motivate students? ›

The inquiry approach encourages student ownership, sense of control, choice and autonomy, explicit purpose for learning, collaboration and personal relevance.

What are the two advantages of inquiry training model? ›

Being actively involved allows them to grow more focused on the subject and develop a strong connection with what they enjoy. It increases their motivation and engagement. By being engaged in their learning, children are more likely to be more motivated to continue learning new information and skills.

What are the positive effects of inquiry-based learning on student performance? ›

Inquiry-based learning allows students to work with peers, collaborate, and learn communication skills. These methods allow students to construct their own knowledge, which leads to better retention of science concepts and greater involvement in the learning process.

What are the two main types of inquiry? ›

There are four forms of inquiry that are commonly used in inquiry-based instruction:
  • Confirmation inquiry. Learners are given a question, as well as a method, to which the end result is already known. ...
  • Structured inquiry. ...
  • Guided inquiry. ...
  • Open inquiry.
Jun 18, 2014

Why should teachers use inquiry-based learning? ›

Students learn key STEM and life skills through inquiry-based learning. Inquiry-based learning also promotes: Social interaction. This helps attention span and develops reasoning skills.

How can inquiry-based learning be used in the classroom? ›

The teacher introduces a new topic or concept. Students explore the topic through research, direct instruction, and hands-on activities. Students develop questions related to the topic, make predictions, and hypothesize. This is the lengthiest part of inquiry learning.

How does inquiry-based learning help children? ›

Inquiry-based learning, as the definition goes, is a teaching method that combines your child's curiosity with the development of critical thinking skills. To put it simply, the child questions everything to trigger creative thinking. It promotes engagement, a spirit of inquiry, creative thinking, and experimentation.

What are examples of inquiry-based questions? ›

Examples Of Inquiry-Based Learning Questions

What do I want to know about this topic? How do I know I know it? What kinds of resources might help? How do I know the info is valid?

What is inquiry and why is it important? ›

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 testing those discoveries in the search for new understanding.

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