science inquiry based learning
Assignment Title
Inquiry-based learning in science is the main pedagogy being promoted across all Europe (see Rocard Report ) even at primary level.
a) Discuss Inquiry-based learning in primary science, indicating its characteristics and its implications to pedagogy.
b)Present one activity which can be classified as an inquiry-based science activity. Discuss why your activity can be considered as inquiry (you can use the Pri-Sci-Net indicators for this part)
Introduction
Throughout the years it has been stressed that certain ‘historic’ teaching methods must become eradicated. As times progress, we as educators must change our teaching styles to suite these times, One method that seems to be producing results and gaining popularity is ‘Inquiry Based Learning’.
Although this method has been around for some time, it is still a relatively new concept for teachers and students, especially for its use in certain subjects, including the sciences. In fact, studies have shown that students do not want to pursue their studies in sciences due to the ‘boring lesson’ factor, (Crooks & Flockton, 2003; 2007; Murphy, Beggs & Russell, 2005). Thus, it is believed that through the use of inquiry, students interest in what they are learning would increase. Reducing negative perceptions towards subjects, when the problems truly lye in the method used to transmit information.
Inquiry Based Learning Definition
“Inquiry is the dynamic process of being open to wonder and puzzlements and coming to know and understand the world” (Galileo Educational Network, 2004). Engaging students to think and reason through the inquiry based method of learning, has become one of the main focus revolving around educators, (Edwards, 1997; NSTA, 1998).
Moreover, Inquiry-based learning is therefore defined as a process where students are actively involved in their individual learning, through logical and critical thinking. This is done by using a number of methods
Inquiry-based learning in science is the main pedagogy being promoted across all Europe (see Rocard Report ) even at primary level.
a) Discuss Inquiry-based learning in primary science, indicating its characteristics and its implications to pedagogy.
b)Present one activity which can be classified as an inquiry-based science activity. Discuss why your activity can be considered as inquiry (you can use the Pri-Sci-Net indicators for this part)
Introduction
Throughout the years it has been stressed that certain ‘historic’ teaching methods must become eradicated. As times progress, we as educators must change our teaching styles to suite these times, One method that seems to be producing results and gaining popularity is ‘Inquiry Based Learning’.
Although this method has been around for some time, it is still a relatively new concept for teachers and students, especially for its use in certain subjects, including the sciences. In fact, studies have shown that students do not want to pursue their studies in sciences due to the ‘boring lesson’ factor, (Crooks & Flockton, 2003; 2007; Murphy, Beggs & Russell, 2005). Thus, it is believed that through the use of inquiry, students interest in what they are learning would increase. Reducing negative perceptions towards subjects, when the problems truly lye in the method used to transmit information.
Inquiry Based Learning Definition
“Inquiry is the dynamic process of being open to wonder and puzzlements and coming to know and understand the world” (Galileo Educational Network, 2004). Engaging students to think and reason through the inquiry based method of learning, has become one of the main focus revolving around educators, (Edwards, 1997; NSTA, 1998).
Moreover, Inquiry-based learning is therefore defined as a process where students are actively involved in their individual learning, through logical and critical thinking. This is done by using a number of methods
References: ‘Best Practices; 2nd Grade Inquiry Based Science’, July 31, 2010, video recording, MaST Community Charter School, Philadelphia, viewed 25th January 2013, from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b133AGFclCY