Inquiry-based learning (IBL) is a method of learning that can be used by learners with various learning styles. It gives one the opportunity and responsibility to gain knowledge and skills to navigate the classroom and various life events. IBL encourages the natural curiosity experienced in childhood. Students engage with their learning through questioning, observing, and problem-solving, both individually and collaboratively. IBL shifts the focus from the educator being the expert to instead be a guide for the learner to explore and become their own expert.
So, what do we mean by natural childhood curiosity? Remember when we were literally exploring the world through our senses by putting objects in our mouths, grabbing at things and asking countless ‘why’ questions. Now, let’s look at how the average classroom has restricted our curiosity.
Imagine you’re sitting at your desk, maybe eight or nine years old. Your teacher invites the students to ask questions. You raise your hand as you think of a question joined by six or seven other hands in the air. Once the questions has been answered and comments have been expressed, you see more hands go up in the air. Young minds are at work thinking of questions and making connections. Not only is the subject at issue being explored, but other subjects (relevant or not) are also being addressed. Students raising their hands, asking question and making comments without fear of being judged is one of the most beautiful parts of elementary school. Unfortunately, this does not last for long.
Fast forward ten years; you’re sitting in a lecture and your professor asks if anyone has any questions regarding the material before moving on to something new. Maybe one or two people raise their hands if anyone is brave enough to ask a question. What happened to all those hands in elementary school? What happened to the fearless comments and questions? Why are people scared of asking questions in class? We will explore these questions later on, but first, let us show you that this is why Inquiry-Based Learning is significant. Exploring topics with the use of various resources and allowing your imagination, creativity, and knowledge to grow is one of the most rewarding parts of education. Furthermore, Inquiry-Based Learning allows you to build problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and research skills that you can apply to academics and various life events.
PSSST. I did not know what inquiry meant at first either, so here is an explanation.
“Inquiry is a study into a worthy question, issue, problem or idea. It is the authentic, real work that someone in the community might tackle… Therefore, inquiry involves serious engagement and investigation and the active creation and testing of new knowledge” (Galileo Educational Network, 2017).