Supporting the Shift to Inquiry
Shanti Elangovan
NOTE: There is no recording for this webinar.
Supporting the Shift to Inquiry
Key Takeaways
The Shift to Inquiry
Inquiry-based learning is rooted in the drive to discover, the need to question, and the ability to create solutions that transform the world around us. Inquiry begins with an authentic question that prompts students to move through a rigorous investigation and culminates in informed action.
Inquiry-based learning can take several forms: from structured inquiry, with teachers facilitating
student investigations, to open inquiry, in which students lead the investigations.
What’s the ideal model for your context today and in the future?
Instructional leaders need a flexible strategy for shifting to inquiry-based teaching and learning, one that assesses readiness, engages stakeholders, and provides clear steps for execution
Webinar Summary
During the "Supporting the Shift" webinar, we discussed some of the difficulties a school or district might face as they shift to inquiry, examining key questions such as:
- Can we meet state standards?
- How do we assess learning?
- How do we help teachers at different stages of the transition?
- How can we convince our parental community to get on board?
We also referenced several resources that can help you to develop your understanding of inquiry and facilitate a shift in practice. We wanted to share those with you!
Resources
Conferences on Inquiry Teaching
- C3 Teachers and NCSS: IDM Institute
- High Tech High: Deeper Learning Conference
- inquirED and NCSS: Elementary Inquiry Summer Institute
Resources about Culturally Responsive Practice and Inquiry
- Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain by Zaretta Hammond
- CRT and the Brain Resources Page
- Brown University CRT Resource Page
Resources for Evaluating Inquiry-Based Instructional Materials
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Start your journey
Inquiry Journeys, inquirED's K-5 social studies curriculum, engages students in inquiry-based learning, strengthens literacy skills, and supports teachers every step of the way.
inquirED was founded by teachers with the mission of bringing inquiry-based social studies to every classroom. Inquiry Journeys, inquirED’s elementary social studies curriculum, is used in schools and districts across the country to help students develop deep social studies content knowledge and build the inquiry skills that are essential for a thriving democracy.
