Inquiry  “Inquiry is a philosophical stance rather than a set of strategies, activities, or a particular teaching method. As such, inquiry promotes intentional and thoughtful learning for teachers and children.” (Mills and Donnelly, 2001)

Three Common “Types” of Inquiry  1) Inquiry into School Practices –Conducting a “School Self-Study” –Developing and Implementing an “Action Plan” –Determining the Effectiveness of the Plan –Focused on the School –Focused on the Teacher

Types of Inquiry  2) Inquiry into Teaching –Action Research –Teacher Self-Study Designed to Improve Teaching Practices

Types of Inquiry  3) Inquiry in the Classroom –Students and Teachers: Observing Phenomena Identifying Questions Determining Investigative Procedures Answering Questions (Solving “Problems”) –Conducted Individually or in Groups –Focused on Building Student Understanding of Discipline/Subject

Invitation to Inquiry  Intellectual Potency –Enables teacher to cover the required curriculum while uncovering a deeper understanding of the subject. –Building schema for lifelong learning  Intrinsic Motivation –Opportunity for children to learn and value the learning process –Students feel empowered as a result of curriculum “ownership”  Value of Discovery –Active participation enhances the value of learning experiences

Common “Descriptors” of Inquiry  Guided Inquiry –Teacher Provides Situation/Setting/Problem –Use of “Open-Ended” Activities Designed to Build Common Understanding –Frequent Student Opportunities to Share and Defend Understanding –Use of Evidence to Support Assertions/Understanding Emphasized

Features of Inquiry Demonstration Strategy lesson, mini-lessons, focus on the what, how and why Engagement Living in the process Reflection Reflecting as individuals and/or groups on the content, skills, strategies and concepts Celebration Public recognition for growth and change

Conditions for Inquiry Teaching  Freedom of expression  Responsive environment  Search for greater meaning  Acceptance of diversity in learning styles  Encourage “risk-taking”

Ways to be Involved  Inquiry into… –Curriculum conversations –Innovative teaching –Participate in PDS Inquiry Committee meetings –Attend PDS Inquiry Workshops –Submit a proposal and budget to support inquiry in your classroom/school –Talk with me……