Inquiry-based learning

God designed His children to wonder, question, and learn about their environment. In the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve were encouraged to explore and share what they had learned with God and the angels (White, 1903). This type of learning was also encouraged in the schools of the prophets (White, 1913).

ByDesign is built on a foundation of inquiry that encourages wonderment, questioning, exploration of multiple resources to conduct research and investigations (i.e., textbooks, informational books, articles, websites, pictures, observations, hands-on activities, etc.), and collaboration. In general, “inquiry is a way of looking at the world, a questioning stance we take when we seek to learn something we don’t yet know. And when we are truly inquiring about that something, whatever it may be, we drive ourselves to learn more and more because we are seeking answers to our own questions” (Parker, 2007, p. 1).

Inquiry is learning in its most authentic form, which can lead to a depth of knowledge and understanding. According to Brian Cambourne (1988), for this type of learning to occur, certain conditions must be present:

Immersion—learners have opportunities for learning and doing in a context that is real and meaningful;

Demonstration—learners see modeling by competent mentors;

Engagement—learners have opportunities to try out challenging tasks;

Expectation—learners feel that adults expect them to be successful;

Responsibility—learners are allowed to make decisions and choices to further their learning;

Employment—learners are offered sufficient time and appropriate contexts for practice;

Approximation—learners’ attempts, even less successful ones, are accepted as part of their learning process;

Response—learners receive non-threatening feedback, encouragement, and support toward their further development.