What are the benefits of enquiry-based learning?
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If you’re looking for innovative ways to capture attention
in your classroom, enquiry-based learning could be another weapon in your
teaching arsenal.
The method recognises the role of pupil engagement, and puts
the emphasis on the pupil to be in control of their learning. In theory, it
enables them to learn at their own pace and engage with materials that they
find interesting.
Here we explore the benefits of this approach and look into
how it can help pupils to maximise their potential.
What is enquiry-based learning?
The simple idea behind enquiry-based learning is that pupils
can explore topics themselves, as it enables them to enhance their understanding
by utilising a range of resources. Rather than using presentations and
workbooks, you can leave pupils to research and share ideas. Essentially,
pupils learn by doing. Class discussion can then be used to help embed what
they have learnt.
Why opt for enquiry-based learning?
The approach gives pupils an opportunity to take their
learning into their own hands and use methods which work best for them. Various
research has shown that it enables youngsters to enhance their comprehension of
topics and boosts their critical thinking skills. In addition, it can also help
the development of communication skills.
Nurture specific interests and talents
By giving pupils some freedom over what they want to learn,
inquiry-based learning often enables them to show off specific talents and
their love for certain topics. The majority of youngsters will pick topics they
feel passionately about, and they’ll often find it easy to talk about them in
front of their peers. This can help pupils to feel involved in class and should
boost engagement.
Learning with some limits
Enquiry-based learning can also be implemented slightly
differently, so that pupils are provided with the topic or some guidance,
before being left to learn as they please. This allows teachers to align work
with the curriculum, but also leaves pupils with a feeling of freedom to shape
their learning.
Enhance analytical and research skills
The nature of enquiry-based learning puts research at the
forefront of any activity – a useful life skill for use in education and the
work place beyond. It encourages pupils to ask the right questions and to look
at all evidence in front of them when looking into topics. They can use
evidence-based reasoning during class discussion and can deepen their
understanding of the subject matter.
Use the approach in any classroom environment
Enquiry-based learning can be implemented in arrange of
different learning environments, as pupils can do research individually or in
small groups. Content can be adapted to the needs of the class too, which the
change in approach may help those who have struggled to learn using more
traditional methods.
Ideally, the approach will form the basis of a balanced
curriculum, whereby pupils experience a range of learning methods. This enables
them to use approaches which best suit their needs when it comes to revision
and exams.
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