Inquiry-based learning

As children and young people develop, inquiry-based learning builds on the many skills developed through play such as thinking skills, problem solving skills and creativity. It focuses on encouraging children and young people to ask questions and explore real world issues, making learning more active and relevant across various subjects.

There are four types of inquiry-based learning:

1. The Structured Inquiry Approach

The structured inquiry approach is a sequential process that helps learners learn how to ask questions and investigate real-world problems. This type of inquiry-based learning is often used in science classes, where learners are given a problem to investigate and are taught how to use the scientific process to find a solution.

2. The Open-Ended Inquiry Approach

The open-ended inquiry approach is a more free-form approach to inquiry-based learning. In this type of learning environment, learners are given the freedom to explore their interests and ask questions about the topic they are studying. This type of inquiry-based learning is often used in humanities classes, where learners are asked to explore a topic in-depth and debate different viewpoints.

3. The Problem-Based Inquiry Approach

A problem-based inquiry approach is a problem-solving approach to inquiry-based learning. In this type of approach, learners are given a real-world problem to solve. This type of inquiry-based learning is often used in maths and technological education classes, where learners are asked to apply what they have learned to solve a real-world problem.

4. The Guided Inquiry Approach

The guided inquiry approach is a staff-led approach to inquiry-based learning. In this type of approach, staff guide the learners through the inquiry process and help them to ask questions and find solutions to real-world problems. This type of inquiry-based learning is often used in early years and middle primary classrooms.