How to Use Enquiry-Based Learning in the Classroom
Enquiry-based learning is a method of learning that allows learners to progress through a series of logical steps in response to a question. It is often used for independent learning projects over a lengthy period of time.
Knowledge bank
Enquiry-based learning originally developed in science, but is now used widely in other subjects, especially geography and history.
The approach requires learners to work through a set learning sequence in response to a stimulus question, typically:
- introduction
- data collection
- data presentation
- data analysis
- conclusion
- evaluation
The approach also provides the structure for a written report which is usually produced to complete the enquiry.
The approach is highly suitable for giving to learners as an independent learning project which can be worked on for a number of lessons. For example, learners carrying out GCSE coursework in a range of subjects now typically follow the enquiry route.
Once learners are engaged in an enquiry it is not unusual for the teacher to keep quiet for much of the lesson, letting learners work at their own pace through tasks and providing individual guidance as required.
Enquiry-based learning allows learners to ask deep questions about the subject matter and carry out their own real-life experiments, gathering data and producing their own reports. As such it can be a very engaging and stimulating learning method and has sometimes been called 'real-world learning'.
The approach provides learners with valuable transferable skills in problem-solving and report writing, which can be used in later life.
The approach places great emphasis on learners taking ownership of their own learning and fits well with the current drive to put learners at the heart of the learning process.
Ask yourself
- What examples of enquiry-based learning are there currently in your school? And in specific subjects?
- What benefits could enquiry-based learning bring to the subjects you teach?
- How might an active method of learning such as this help to engage learners in the subject(s) you teach? What might the challenges be?
To do list
- If you're not familiar with the approach, observe a colleague teaching using enquiry-based learning.
- Consider the practicalities of how enquiry-based learning can be applied to your subject area.
- Experiment with using the approach in your classroom, explaining first to learners what it is and how you plan to use it. Then gather feedback from a wide range of sources on how effective it is in your classroom.
- If you and your learners become experienced at enquiry-based learning, consider asking learners to set the questions themselves.