Inquiry is an iterative process for diving deeply into learning. When we follow a line or lines of questions, we keep uncovering new depths, we discover how ideas are or can be connected, and we (necessarily) are involved in making meaning as opposed to just recalling information that doesn’t necessarily have context or value. Inquiry is personal because the starting point is the learner’s interest
Step 1: Starting
Learner creates/co-creates a question or questions that are of a kind that will allow an inquiry or a quest to take place. (clarify teachers’ role)
Step 2: Deepening
Learner takes on early research based on starting questions. May discuss with teacher and/or other learners to help flesh out ideas. Research may involve creating something or doing something besides just reading or talking. The goal is to improve the quality of the question(s) from Step 1.
- Inquiry Guide (blank)
- Internet (Google, etc.)
- EBSCO Host (get password from school)
- Library resources
- Teacher(s)
- Community Resources
- Surveys
- Experiments
- Pop-Up Sessions/classes
Step 3: Refining
Learner creates new questions based on research and learning in Step 2. These could be expressed in a mind map (to show how learner got there), or just a new list of questions.
Step 4: Planning
Learner develops and plans learning activities, projects, sessions, experiences, etc. to address/explore new questions from Step 3, including timelines, assessment ideas, and resource needs.
- Learning Verbs Depth Chart
- Calendar/planner (Google, iCal, Outlook, on paper)
- Gantt Chart Template
Step 5: Learning
Learner follows plans from Step 4, making modifications as needed. Daily and weekly work plans will reflect short-term goals. Assessment of learning will take place throughout this step. Reflection on learning is also part of this step.