What does Science Inquiry have to do with my classroom? By Richelle Decuir Tracy Kuhnell Mary Crane Jennifer Laird

What is Science Inquiry? a learning situation in which the principal content of what is to be learned is not given by the teacher, but must be independently discovered by the learner, making the student an active participant in his learning.

What is required in the classroom? Requires that students participate in decision making about what, how and when something is learned. The student is expected to explore examples and discover from them the principles or concepts which are to be learned. Discovery Learning Theory should act as a refined extension of broad based theory constructivism by focusing on the individual. Discovery Learning Theory should serve as a way of defining and promoting structure to the way in which individuals learn thus acting as a guide for educational research Classroom management needs to be improved and monitored.

Advantages of Science as Inquiry!! Supports active engagement of the learner in the learning process Fosters curiosity Enables the development of life long learning skills Personalizes the learning experience Highly motivating as it allows individuals the opportunity to experiment and discover something for themselves Builds on learner's prior knowledge and understanding

How does it affect my classroom? The organization and teaching of the lesson is student lead. The teacher becomes a coach or a helper to the students. Students are allowed to discuss concepts and voice opinions. Collaborative grouping improves teamwork skills among my students. Low and high achieving students are allowed to work together improving knowledge.

Resources Alternative Modes of Teaching and Learning. Alternative Modes to Delivery. Retrieved January 31, 2004 from o_delivery/discovery_learning.html o_delivery/discovery_learning.html Discovery Learning Theory – A Primer for Discussion. Retrieved January 31, 2004 from edu/phd_archives/EPRS8500_DiscLrn gThry.PDF edu/phd_archives/EPRS8500_DiscLrn gThry.PDF Dalgarno, Barney. Constructivist Computer Assisted Learning: Theory and Techniques. Retrieved January 31, 2004 from cwebpages/articles/ascilite96/paper.ht m cwebpages/articles/ascilite96/paper.ht m