Inquiry Learning

Inquiry Learning is an approach grounded in the writings of John Dewey where knowledge is built up from experience and process. Students engage in self-directed activities to identify what they need to learn and find resources to increase their understanding. It is because the students develop their own inquiry questions that they are intrinsically motivated to learn.

Common approaches in Inquiry Learning include fieldwork, case studies, and individual or group research, often using on-line resources. Inquiry Learning tends to be student centred and allows the students to decide which aspect of the area of study they will choose to inquire into. Students identify and research issues and questions to develop knowledge or solutions. Inquiry-based learning includes problem-based learning, and is generally used in small scale investigations and projects, as well as research.

The Inquiry Learning Cycle