As a student, have you ever felt bored learning the same thing over and over again? Have you ever found yourself asking, “When will I use this in real life?” If you have, know that you’re not alone, and that’s okay. This is where inquiry based learning examples come in.
Learning through inquiry means asking questions, exploring answers, and discovering new things. Inquiry based learning examples can involve anything from science experiments to solving problems in groups. Instead of memorizing facts, learners get to use their critical thinking and creativity to understand topics.
One example of inquiry based learning is the “Egg Drop Challenge.” In this exercise, students are given a set of materials, like popsicle sticks, rubber bands, and tape. They then have to create a container that can protect a raw egg from breaking when dropped from different heights. This activity not only allows students to use their problem-solving skills, but also helps them understand concepts like gravity, force, and motion.
Another inquiry-based learning example is the “Gumdrop Bridge Challenge.” In this activity, individuals or groups have to build a bridge out of gumdrops and toothpicks that can support a given weight. This exercise not only requires the students to use basic geometry concepts, but also promotes teamwork, communication, and creativity.
Inquiry based learning examples can also be integrated into more traditional classroom settings. An excellent case is the use of Google’s “The Science Journal” application. This application allows students to use their smartphones as scientific instruments to conduct experiments. For example, students can use their phones to measure the sound intensity of their school bell or to track the changes in temperature over time. This activity may not only help students understand science concepts but also may encourage them to pursue interests in science.
Inquiry based learning examples do not always have to be events or activities. Some inquiry-based projects can involve researching specific topics of interest. For example, students can be asked to choose a particular historical event and research about it on their own. This activity allows learners to take ownership of their learning, access various resources, and communicate their findings.
One of the biggest advantages of inquiry-based learning is that it fosters a love for learning. When learners get to choose what they want to learn or participate in, they are more engaged and motivated. They become more invested in their education, which can lead to better grades, better attendance, and higher self-esteem.
Inquiry-based learning also provides more significant opportunities for learners to develop essential skills for real-life situations. By offering students open-ended inquiry-based learning examples, students develop problem-solving skills, communication, creativity, and critical thinking, which are beneficial far beyond the classroom.
Lastly, inquiry based learning examples promote active learning. For instance, active learning is about committing information to long-term memory by doing something with it instead of only reading it with little or no interaction. By actively engaging with the information in an inquiry-based approach by asking questions, considering the sources, and critically assessing the information, learners are retaining information much better.
Inquiry-based learning examples are an exciting and engaging way for students to learn. They promote active learning and encourage students to become independent thinkers. While these activities can be enjoyed by students of all ages, they are particularly essential for middle and high school students who need to explore and create knowledge actively. When children are engaged in their learning, they will be more receptive to learning, gain a broader perspective of the value of education, and may ultimately become significant contributors to society.
