Inquiry-based+learning

Effective inquiry is more than just asking questions. Inquiry-based learning is a complex process where students formulate questions, investigate to find answers, build new understandings, meanings and knowledge, and then communicate their learnings to others. In classrooms where teachers emphasize inquiry-based learning, students are actively involved in solving authentic (real-life) problems within the context of the curriculum and/or community. These powerful learning experiences engage students deeply.

Research suggests that inquiry-based learning increases student creativity, independence, and problem solving skills, and it improves student achievement.

A model for inquiry was developed by Alberta Education to support the work of teachers and students. For more information about this model, see Focus on Inquiry: A Teacher’s Guide to Implementing Inquiry-based Learning (2004).