Over the course of this week, I’ve come to some realizations about inquiry based learning. At first, I thought I had a handle on what to expect and my role in the process. I’ll be the first to admit, I had lots to learn and now have different perspective on the model. Looking at an overview of the steps for inquiry based learning, I can visualize the milestones needed from start to finish. I was forgetting one of the most important steps in the process and how crucial it is for students to reflect from beginning to end. Sure we as teachers strive to activate prior knowledge in all our lessons, then supplement this information to cover gaps for those who are unaware, but next is where inquiry based learning sets itself apart. Instead of the teacher deciding what direction the lesson will take, the students define individual outcomes for themselves that they will be held accountable for. Too good to be true, right? After the teacher has modeled a product and the steps needed to reach the final product, students are sent out to create a product based on their interests on ideas. My head is spinning with the numbers of ideas I can foresee using iPads; it is endless! Inquiry based learning is a means for students to ask questions, research, create, collaborate and reflect on the process. It allows for deeper understanding through critical thinking and problem solving. Students play an active role in the learning process and can monitor their learning through self-directed learning skills. They develop ownership in their learning, therefore enhancing individuals interest in the learning taking place.
When signing up for this class, I presumed it was going to piggyback on the ideas of project based learning, however I was wrong. This takes on a different approach and an exciting journey that I can hope to use with my budding Kindergarten scientists. So many of my (original) perspectives have changed as I’ve read more about the topic and now understand the key components for the inquiry process. Once I read through the provided readings through our course, I began searching for additional resources. During my search, I found another visual representation of the inquiry based learning called the Stripling Model. I liked how this graphic representation included more detailed examples for each piece of the representation. It not only deepened my understanding of inquiry learning, but provided me with a tool to use throughout this course as we dive deeper. Activities like these are exactly what our students need; opportunities to reflect on their learning. I value the opportunity to learn more about inquiry based learning and see how I can most effectively implement it into my classroom.
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