Inquiry-Based learning

Inquiry-based learning is a student centered learning approach that focuses on questioning and research. There are different types of inquiry-based learning, each with a different level of structure for the student to follow. 

The most structured version is confirmation-inquiry. In this version, the instructor provides the students with a question, an answer, and the method used to find the answer with the goal being for the students to figure out how the given method works.

Next is structured-inquiry where the students are given a question and a method for the students to come up with their own conclusion.

Then there is guided-inquiry. For this, the instructor only provides an open question. The students must design their own method for finding an answer.

The least structured version of inquiry-based learning is open-inquiry. For this, students pose their own question they wish to answer with their own methods to come up with a conclusion. (Guido, 2017)

Each type of inquiry-based learning aims to promote high-level critical thinking and to increase a students learning motivation by focusing on a curiosity driven approach. 

There are 4 steps in the process: 

  1. A question to be answered is posed
  2. Students conduct research on the topic and find resources
  3. Students evaluate their sources and compile information
  4. Students present their findings

The learning approach encourages independent learning in students as it gives more freedom to the student on how they learn and answer a given question. This approach aims to help students develop their abilities to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information. By giving students more freedom in the work it can increase their engagement with the material. Since everyone can access this learning strategy through their own questions, inquiry based learning is also inclusive. 

Alignment with control flow in python

Although inquiry based learning usually matches well with computer science topics as there are plenty of resources that can be found online, it can also lead to students over complicating simpler tasks such as the basics of control flow. Since the course is meant to be short and only covers the basic parts of control flow we will not be using an inquiry based learning structure in our learning resource.

References

Guido, M. (2017, January 19). What Is Inquiry-Based Learning: 7 Benefits & Strategies You Need to Know. Prodigy Education. Retrieved November 27, 2021, from https://www.prodigygame.com/main-en/blog/inquiry-based-learning-definition-benefits-strategies/.

Take online courses. earn college credit. Research Schools, Degrees & Careers. Study.com | Take Online Courses. Earn College Credit. Research Schools, Degrees & Careers. (n.d.). Retrieved November 27, 2021, from https://study.com/teach/inquiry-based-learning.html.