21st Century |
Science Programs |
Science Programs |
based Activities |
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What an Inquiry-based Classroom Looks Like 
When observing a traditional versus inquiry-based science classroom the subtle shift in teaching and
learning may not seem immediately apparent. Students in both classrooms are found reading, making observations,
asking questions, conducting experiments, and making interpretations. Both include direct instruction from the
teacher. A major difference, however, is that in an inquiry-based classroom teachers use instructional
materials and teaching strategies that harness students' innate curiosity for knowing "how we come to know"
things rather than confirming "what we know."
Traditional Classroom In a classroom where students are looking for a "correct" answer, the instruction follows more traditional methods, such as giving students scientific facts and definitions in lecture format and repeating laboratory procedures that lead to a specific, known result. Scientific concepts are often presented quickly and in only one setting. Research shows that many students have difficulties applying and extending the concepts learned from these types of experiences to new situations. Research also indicates that students approached in this manner quickly become disinterested and have difficulty seeing the relevance for how this information will be useful in their own lives, beyond remembering the facts for a test. Traditional methods may be hands-on but not necessarily minds-on. Inquiry-based Science Classroom  Teachers in inquiry-based classrooms empower students by providing a variety of opportunities and methods
for students to observe, question, and investigate the world around them. As students build meaning from
these experiences, additional opportunities to extend and apply the new information helps to solidify the
knowledge and skills gained.
Studies show that learning science in this manner reflects how children naturally learn through experimentation, which facilitates connections between new information and former experiences or ideas. As a result, students retain more information and have a deeper understanding of science concepts. |
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Complete Guide |
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Credits |
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Copyright© 2007 by Institute for Systems Biology. All Rights Reserved. |
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