How do you support project and inquiry-based learning?

1 Define the purpose and scope

Before you start a project or inquiry-based learning unit, you need to have a clear idea of what you want your students to learn and achieve. You also need to consider how long the unit will last, what resources and materials you will need, and how you will align it with the curriculum standards and learning objectives. A good way to define the purpose and scope of your unit is to use a driving question or an essential question that guides the inquiry process and connects to the students' interests, passions, and curiosities.

2 Design the learning tasks and activities

Once you have a driving or essential question, you can design the learning tasks and activities that will help your students answer it. Depending on the type and level of your unit, you can either provide a structured sequence of tasks and activities, or allow your students to choose their own path of inquiry. You can also incorporate different types of learning experiences, such as research, experiments, interviews, surveys, simulations, games, field trips, or guest speakers. The main goal is to provide your students with opportunities to acquire and apply relevant knowledge, skills, and attitudes in authentic contexts.

4 Assess the learning outcomes

Assessing project and inquiry-based learning can be tricky, as you need to balance the formative and summative aspects of evaluation. You also need to consider the content, process, and product of the learning experience, and how they relate to the learning objectives and standards. You can use a variety of assessment methods, such as observations, conferences, journals, quizzes, tests, presentations, or exhibitions. You can also involve your students in the assessment process by using self-assessment, peer assessment, or student-led conferences. The main purpose of assessment is to provide your students with constructive feedback and recognition for their learning achievements.

5 Foster a positive learning environment

Project and inquiry-based learning can be more engaging and motivating for your students if you foster a positive learning environment that supports their autonomy, collaboration, and creativity. You can do this by creating a culture of inquiry, where you encourage your students to ask questions, share ideas, and challenge assumptions. You can also create a culture of collaboration, where you promote teamwork, communication, and respect among your students. Finally, you can create a culture of creativity, where you celebrate your students' diversity, originality, and innovation.

6 Reflect on your practice

As a teacher, you can also benefit from project and inquiry-based learning by reflecting on your own practice and learning from your successes and challenges. You can use various reflection tools, such as journals, surveys, or portfolios, to document your planning, implementation, and assessment of your unit. You can also seek feedback from your students, colleagues, or mentors, to identify your strengths and areas for improvement. By reflecting on your practice, you can enhance your professional growth and development as a project and inquiry-based learning teacher.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?