Components of Inquiry-Based Learning

Components of Inquiry-Based Learning

Although teachers can approach inquiry-based instruction in a variety of ways, a few basic components are important: ESSENTIAL COMPONENTS OF INQUIRY-BASED LEARNING DESCRIPTION 1. Orientation/Observation The teacher introduces a new topic or concept. Students explore the topic through research, direct instruction, and hands-on activities. 2. Question/Conceptualize Students develop questions related to the topic, make predictions, and hypothesize. 3. Investigation This is the lengthiest part of inquiry learning. Students take the initiative, with appropriate teacher support, to discover answers, to find evidence to support or disprove hypotheses, and to conduct research. 4. Conclusion Having collected information and data, students develop conclusions and answers to their questions. They determine if their ideas or hypotheses prove correct or have flaws. This may lead to more questions. 5. Discussion/Sharing All students can learn from each other at this point by presenting results. The teacher should guide discussions, encouraging debate, more questions, and reflection