Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL)

Inquiry-Based Learning

Inquiry-based learning (IBL) is a process where students are involved in their learning, formulate questions, investigate widely and then build new understandings, meanings and knowledge. That knowledge is new to the students and may be used to answer a question, to develop a solution or to support a position or point of view. (Alberta Learning, 2004.)

Art Inquiry Model (STAR)

         Source: https://star.moe.edu.sg/resources/art-resources/art-inquiry-and-digital-learning-postcard-2022/

What

Art teachers can refer to the Art Inquiry model by STAR to aid them in their lesson planning. It is broken down into 5 components and focuses on engagement of students through exploration, experimentation and reflection in artmaking. It encourages student-led inquiry to develop new ideas, problem-solve and foster a deeper understanding of artistic processes and concepts. IBL focuses on self-directed learning and continuous reflection.

The model includes 5 key phases:

• Connect & Wonder: Spark curiosity, research ideas

• Investigate/Play: Experiment with materials and tools.

• Make: Create original artworks through exploration and creative expression.

• Express: Communicate intentions and ideas, using digital or traditional mediums.

• Reflect: Self-assess and reflect on the creative process, incorporating feedback.

How

1. CAIT 5: Explores possibilities and generates novel and useful ideas

• Inquiry starts with curiosity! Students can ask questions about what they see in artworks or the themes they explore, promoting original ideas and thinking

• The phase ‘Investigate/Play’ encourages hands-on exploration and an experimental mindset. This helps students discover new ideas, techniques and methods.

• By investigating and exploring different materials and techniques, students are allowed to take risks and try unconventional approaches. This also builds their problem-solving skills which are key components of inventive thinking.

2.   CAIT 6: Evaluates and refines ideas to formulate novel and useful solutions

• The phase ‘Express/Reflect’ encourages sharing and discussion of art processes. This aligns with how inventive thinking values self-expression, critique, and reflection on one’s creative journey.

Suggested strategies for fostering 'Inventive Thinking' through IBL

1. Scaffold open-ended exploration

• Provide guiding questions to encourage students to think critically. Ask students, “How does your artwork express your ideas?”

• Offer a variety of materials and tools to allow for creative experimentation. Ask students, "How can you use unexpected materials to create art?"

2. Encourage collaborative brainstorming

• Use group discussions to foster the exchange of ideas, where students build on each other’s thoughts.

• Brainstorming exercises may include the following: 

• Think-Pair-Share allows students to brainstorm individually before collaborating to refine ideas

• Mind maps can also be used as a brainstorming and ideation tool, to capture and make connections to a central theme

• Thumbnail sketches can be generated quickly to explore compositions. Students can be encouraged to try different perspectives, arrangements, and subject matter for their final piece. Alternatively, digital tools can be used for sketching.

• Digital tools such as Canva or Google slides can help to create mood boards with visual references.

• Teachers can also adopt the “See, Think, Sketch” as a visual thinking strategy to develop their ideas. Show students an artwork and ask the following questions: 

See: "What do you see in the artwork?"

Think: "What do you think is happening?"

Sketch: Have students quickly sketch their interpretation or idea based on the artwork.

3. Reflect throughout the process

• Students can reflect on their work throughout the process, using rubrics or peer feedback to identify areas for improvement. Students can use a sketchbook or a journal where they document their challenges and solutions. “What feedback did you receive from your peer / teacher? How did it change your approach?”

More on IBL

• Video: What is the Art Inquiry Model

• Start Box: Conversation Starters on Inquiry–based Art Teaching

• Generating Inquiry-Based Art Lesson Ideas: A Primer With 50 Examples

• Inquiry In and Through Art: A Lesson Design Toolkit

Lesson Ideas for Inquiry-Based Learning

References:

Focus on Inquiry: A teacher's guide to implementing inquiry-based learning. Edmonton: Alberta Learning, 2004. open. https://open.alberta.ca/publications/0778526666

Start Box: Conversation Starters on Inquiry–based Art Teaching (Guidebook) (2018). Singapore Teachers' Academy for the aRts