Inquiry-Based+Learning

=Inquiry-Based Learning=

The inquiry approach is more focused on using and learning content as a means to develop information-processing and problem-solving skills. The system is more student centered, with the teacher as a facilitator of learning. There is more emphasis on "how we come to know" and less on "what we know." Students are more involved in the construction of knowledge through active involvement. The more interested and engaged students are by a subject or project, the easier it will be for them to construct in-depth knowledge of it. Learning becomes almost effortless when something fascinates students and reflects their interests and goals. Inquiry classrooms are open systems where students are encouraged to search and make use of resources beyond the classroom and the school. Teachers who use inquiry can use technology to connect students appropriately with local and world communities which are rich sources of learning and learning materials. They replace lesson plans with facilitated learning plans that account for slight deviations while still keeping an important learning outcome in focus. They meet on-target questions with, "How do you suggest we investigate that question?"

Assessment is focused on determining the progress of skills development in addition to content understanding. Inquiry learning is concerned with in-school success, but it is equally concerned with preparation for life-long learning.

=What it looks like @ Solvay Middle School Learning Commons:=


 * Students encouraged to create projects of interest
 * Webpage creation of topics of interest
 * Google Docs
 * Student exploration of the product within the guise of a project; time given to explore and make mistakes
 * Pen Pals
 * Discussion of pen pals and what types of questions to ask
 * Differences between emailing and writing letters
 * Research Lessons
 * Discovery of many resources
 * Website Credibility Criteria
 * Variety of types of resources (online, paper, multimedia)
 * Give students ability to explore area of interest within a topic of study