There is a wide range of teaching methods, but which one is the best? Each student is unique, and so are the teachers; they have their own unique teaching methods to help their students learn and understand better, and relying on one method alone is only plausible in some situations. However, have you ever noticed the spark of curiosity in a student's eyes when they're presented with a question? This spark is the foundation of inquiry-based learning. In this article, we will explore the advantages of inquiry-based learning, the different types of inquiry-based learning, and how it can transform the way we teach and learn.
What is inquiry-based learning?
Inquiry-based learning is a curiosity-driven educational approach that encourages students to explore and learn. Rather than spoon-feeding the
students with pre-digested information, inquiry-based learning encourages them to question, explore, and discover concepts and principles for
themselves and form a deeper understanding of the subject. If you are a parent or an educator, you would have noticed how children learn better
when they are actively engaged and interested in a subject. Inquiry-based learning develops that curiosity in children and helps them learn better.
There are many types of inquiry-based learning, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits.
Structured inquiry: In a structured inquiry learning process, the teacher often provides a clear problem for students to investigate and solve,
and there is a determined path for them to walk, and the teacher will provide guidance and support throughout the process.
Problem-based inquiry: The problem-based inquiry learning process, like the name suggests, revolves around solving a
specific problem by applying knowledge.
Guided inquiry: In the guided inquiry learning process, the teacher plays the lead role and motivates the children to ask more questions,
investigate, and identify solutions and answers.
Open-ended inquiry: The open inquiry learning process is rather free and allows students to take complete ownership of the inquiry process.
Here students can ask topic-related questions and explore their interests with the help of a mentor.
Advantages of inquiry-based learning
Teachers starting their classes with a question, encouraging the children to explore the concept, and providing the right guidance and support
throughout the learning process can truly provide a great advantage in terms of developing healthier learning habits and deeper understanding
in students. This is why inquiry-based learning is highly acclaimed around the world as a teaching method with a wide range of advantages.
Deeper understanding: One of the biggest advantages of inquiry-based learning is that it encourages students to delve deeper into a subject,
exploring its complexities and nuances. This leads to a richer understanding of the subject.
Stimulates critical thinking and creativity: Inquiry-based learning helps students develop critical thinking skills, including analysis,
evaluation, and problem-solving skills, and it also encourages children to develop more creative solutions to problems.
Communication and comprehension made easy: Better communication skills can definitely help students in their academic pursuits and real life.
A classroom that uses inquiry-based learning methods can hone a child's communication skills while also helping them comprehend complex concepts easily.
Improves research-based learning habits: The best higher education programs and institutions in the world all encourage research-based learning,
and inquiry-based learning in classrooms can help students improve their research-based learning habits.
Better engagement: Inquiry-based learning is inherently engaging because it is a curiosity-driven learning process; students are encouraged to
explore and discover new concepts and principles while asking relevant questions. The knowledge is not spoon-fed; instead, there is a dialogue
between students and teachers, and that leads to a more motivated and enthusiastic learning atmosphere.
Better retention: When students are actively engaged in the classroom and curious to learn, they are more likely to retain the information
they have learned. Inquiry-based learning helps students to develop a deeper connection to the subject they are learning, and that connection
and deeper understanding will help them retain and recall better when they appear in exams.
Conclusion
Inquiry-based learning is a powerful approach to teaching that can transform the way we teach and learn. As one of the best CBSE schools in Kerala, Sadhbhavana World School recognizes the importance of building a culture of curiosity and inquiry in our students. We embrace inquiry-based learning methods in our classrooms to foster a generation of active learners and creative thinkers. Connect with us and discover what makes Sadhbhavana the best boarding school in Calicut. Join us and choose an education that inspires and empowers!