What the Heck Is Inquiry-Based Learning?

[elleng]

'Inquiry-based learning is more than asking a student what he or she wants to know. It’s about triggering curiosity. And activating a student’s curiosity is, I would argue, a far more important and complex goal than the objective of mere information delivery.

Nevertheless, despite its complexity, inquiry-based learning can be somehow easier on teachers, too. True, it’s seemingly easier because it transfers some responsibilities from teachers to students, but it’s really easier because releasing authority engages students.

Teachers who use inquiry-based learning combat the “dunno” -- a chronic problem in student engagement.'>>>

http://www.edutopia.org/blog/what-heck-inquiry-based-learning-heather-wolpert-gawron?utm_content=37813677&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook

[tonyt53]

1. it is what education used to be. We were encouraged to ask questions. That's why the GOP hated it.

[elleng]

2. Exactly, it's EDUCATION!

We did, actually, have a couple of 'old-school' teachers, in JR. high, who were less than open and welcoming, on the face of it, but those who took a moment to engage them were amply rewarded.

[msongs]

3. oh sure but will it help kids pass standardized tests? nt

[LWolf]

4. It's what I do,

and what I've done my entire career...under the table during most of the current "reform" movement, although that's recently changed.

My principal was an IB student, and has enthusiastically supported my return to above-board inquiry.

Done well, it's an incredibly powerful and empowering way to teach and learn.

[elleng]

5. HAPPY to hear you've done it and are now enthusiastically received!