#inquiry-based learning – Unlearn to Learn

“Inquiry Learning Word Cloud” by Christopher Lister is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0

This blog posting reflects a summary of my learning on the topic of inquiry learning for the EDCI 569 #learningproject assignment.

Starting point:

I attempted to introduce an inquiry learning block into my weekly schedule last year and it did go well. I did not scaffold the process nearly enough to ensure all my learners experienced success. http://christopher-lister.ca/choice/reintroducing-inquiry-learning-into-the-elementary-classroom/

Making connections:

I needed to understand how other k-12 educators were incorporating inquiry learning:

http://christopher-lister.ca/tiegrad-2/learning-project-reflection-inquirychat/

Theoretical frameworks:

All classroom decision should be made based on evidence-based research. Inquiry learning falls under the overarching learning theory of constructivism.

http://christopher-lister.ca/tiegrad-2/constructivism-the-foundation-of-inquiry-learning/

Understanding the cycle of inquiry:

Before blindly jumping into an inquiry project it is important to know where you plan to take your students learning.

http://christopher-lister.ca/tiegrad-2/inquiry-learningproject-reflection/

Important questions around inquiry learning:

When introducing inquiry learning into the classroom there will inevitably be stumbling blocks along the way. It is nice to get ahead of the curve and learn from others.

http://christopher-lister.ca/tiegrad-2/3-important-questions-on-classroom-inquiry/

Models of inquiry:

Exploring Spirals of Inquiry by Halbert and Kaser helped me understand the need for this type of student-centred learning.

http://christopher-lister.ca/tiegrad-2/inquiry-lit-review-reflection/

Scaffolding the inquiry process:

Helping student understand and define inquiry learning is important.

http://christopher-lister.ca/tiegrad-2/scaffolding-an-inquiry-question-with-kids/

The importance of self-regulated learning skills:

Time is needed to make sure students, embarking on a journey of inquiry learning, have the necessary learning skills to be successful.

http://christopher-lister.ca/tiegrad-2/self-regulated-learning-skills-a-prerequisite-for-inquiry-learning/

Variations of inquiry learning:

Game-based and simulation-based learning lend themselves well to the pursuit of inquiry learning.