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BlogLearning Strategies for KidsWhat Is Inquiry-Based Learning? Types, Benefits, Examples

What Is Inquiry-Based Learning? Types, Benefits, Examples

March 14, 2023

Image of student raising hands in the classroom

Dive in,

What Is Inquiry-Based Learning?

The 4 Types of Inquiry-Based Learning

Benefits of Inquiry-Based Learning

Inquiry-Based Learning Examples

Strategies and Tips for Implementing Inquiry-Based Learning

Four Models To Use In The Classroom

Let’s Wrap!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are you looking for a teaching strategy that will engage your students in the learning process? Do you
want them to be able to ask questions and investigate real-world problems? If so, you should consider
using inquiry-based learning in your classroom.

Inquiry-based learning is a teaching method that encourages students to ask questions and investigate
real-world problems. This type of learning has many benefits and can be used in a variety of subject
areas.

This blog post will discuss the benefits of inquiry-based learning and provide some strategies, tips, and
models that you can use in your classroom. But first, let’s take a closer look at what inquiry-based
learning is.

Dive in,
What is inquiry-based learning

Types of inquiry-based learning

Benefits of inquiry-based learning

Inquiry-based learning examples

Strategies for implementing inquiry-based learning in the classroom

Four models to use in the classroom

FAQs

What Is Inquiry-Based Learning?

Students sitting in class and learning about inquiry based learning

Inquiry-based learning is a student-centered teaching method that encourages students to ask questions
and investigate real-world problems. In this type of learning environment, students are actively engaged
in the learning process and are given the opportunity to explore their natural curiosities.

This type of learning is often hands-on and allows students to connect what they are learning in the
classroom and the real world. Inquiry-based learning has been shown to improve critical thinking skills,
problem-solving skills, and creativity.

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The 4 Types of Inquiry-Based Learning

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1. The Structured Inquiry Approach

The structured inquiry approach is a sequential process that helps students learn how to ask questions
and investigate real-world problems. This type of inquiry-based learning is often used in science classes,
where students 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, students 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 students 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

4. The Guided Inquiry Approach

The guided inquiry approach is a teacher-led approach to inquiry-based learning. In this type of
approach, the teacher guides the students through the inquiry process and helps them to ask questions
and find solutions to real-world problems. This type of inquiry-based learning is often used in
elementary and middle school classrooms.

Now that we have a better understanding of the different types of inquiry-based learning let’s take a
look at the benefits.

Benefits of Inquiry-Based Learning

Image of student sitting in class and thinking

1. Encourages Critical Thinking

Inquiry-based learning encourages students to think critically about the information they are presented
with. They are asked to question the information and develop their own solutions. This type of learning
helps students develop problem-solving skills and critical thinking skills.

2. Improves Problem-Solving Skills

Inquiry-based learning helps students develop problem-solving skills. When they are given the
opportunity to explore real-world problems, they are forced to think outside the box and come up with
their own solutions. This is an important skill that will help them in their future careers.

3. Encourages Creativity

This concept of learning encourages creativity. When students are given the opportunity to explore a
problem independently, they often come up with creative solutions. This is due to the fact that any
particular way of thinking does not restrict them.

4. Improves Communication Skills

It also helps students improve their communication skills. When working on a problem, they often have
to explain their thoughts and ideas to others. This helps them learn how to communicate effectively
with others.

5. Connects Learning to the Real World

Inquiry-based learning helps connect learning to the real world. When students are allowed to explore
problems that exist in the real world, they can see how what they are learning in the classroom is
relevant. This also helps them develop a better understanding of the material.

6. Helps Students Understand Complex Topics

7. Encourages Engaged Learning

Finally, this type of learning encourages engaged learning. When students are actively involved in the
learning process, they are more likely to retain the information. This is due to the fact that they are
invested in what they are doing.

Inquiry-Based Learning Examples

Image of a teacher high fiving her students

Now that we have looked at the benefits of inquiry-based learning let’s take a look at some examples.

1. Science Experiments

One way to incorporate inquiry-based learning into your classroom is to allow students to conduct
experiments. This will encourage them to ask questions and think critically about the results.

2. Field Trips

Another way to encourage inquiry-based learning is to take students on field trips. This will allow them
to explore real-world problems and see how what they are learning in the classroom is relevant.

3. Classroom Debates

Classroom debates are another great way to encourage this type of learning. When students debate a
topic, they are forced to think critically about both sides of the argument.

4. Projects

Projects are another great way to encourage inquiry-based learning. When students are given the
opportunity to work on a project that is related to the topic they are studying, they will be more likely to
learn and remember the information.
5. Group Work

When students work in groups, they are able to share their ideas and thoughts with others. This helps
them to understand the material better.