What's Inquiry Based Science?
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A Definition
The Webster's dictionary defines "Inquiry" as "a search for knowledge, an instance of questioning, or a search for information or truth". Inquiry-based science, as defined by Wikipedia, is a "method of teaching science where students learn science by using similar methods, attitudes, and skills as scientists do when they are conducting scientific research".
Our Innate System of Learning
Although you may be unaware of the process, every individual has been utilizing inquiry-based learning since the time we where born. Think about how newborns process their new, and completely strange environment. From the day they are born, babies begin a process of careful observation by examining all the faces that come near. They also begin to grasp and touch objects, putting items in their mouths to fully explore their characteristics, and turning their heads in the direction of interesting sounds or familiar voices. All these actions are examples of inquiry-based learning, an innate ability to gather information using their human senses and attempting to make sense of their world.
Inquiry-based learning is not a new technique—in fact, it goes back to education philosopher John Dewey—but it does stand in stark contrast to the more structured, textbook-centered framework of today's schools. Asking questions is at the heart of inquiry-based science learning. The goal is not to ask just any questions, but ones that spark students' natural curiosity and motivate them to ponder their observations.
What Inquiry-Science Looks Like
Although there is no single right answer as to what defines inquiry-based science, educators have outlined what it looks like. In simple terms it is a learning process or strategy rather than any specific set of lessons. This process aims to enhance learning based on increased student involvement. Through hands-on investigations, knowledge becomes more relevant and easier to comprehend. Inquiry-based science leads to active construction of meaningful knowledge, rather than passive acquisition of facts provided by a teacher. The old chinese proverb, "Tell me and I forget, show me and I remember, involve me and I understand" is the essence of what inquiry-based science is all about.
Advantages of Inquiry-Based Science
Unfortunately, our traditional educational system in the United States has evolved in a way that discourages the natural process of inquiry-learning. The current system is teacher-focused and revolves around giving out information about what is known. The emphasis is on student's ability to recall facts and master the chosen material so that they may proceed to the next grade level.
However, memorizing facts and information is not the most important skill in today's world. Facts are constantly changing and thanks to our digital age, we are overwhelmed with information. The skill needed for this new age of information is the ability to examine and make sense of this avalanche of data. Students who actively make observations, collect, analyze, and synthesize information and draw conclusions are developing the critical skills that they will encounter both at school and in the future workforce.
Students need to develop inquiry skills so that they can cope with future situations and become lifelong learners. Ultimately, the significance of inquiry learning is that students learn how to continue learning, something they will use and rely upon throughout their lives.
Learn More About Inquiry-Based Science
www.FOSSWorks.com
Inquiry-Based Science, What Does It Look Like?
Center for Inquiry-Based Learning
EDC Center for Science Education
National Science Teachers Association