Inquiry-based Learning Research Articles

The Influence of Environmental Factors on Photosynthesis - Learning Design and Assessment Plan for a STEM Curriculum

There has been a lot of attention on STEM education, but there is less STEM curriculum for teachers to have a reference point in China. The article proposes a short STEM curriculum for use by teachers in the teaching of the STEM curriculum. The curriculum is for 10th graders. Biology is the main subject integrated with mathematics and chemistry. The article shows specific course content, including 3 different experiments. Experiments in which students participate independently are more likely to sharpen their thinking. Inquiry-based learning is adopted as the educational approach, through which students can discover new causal relationships because students formulate hypotheses and test them by conducting experiments and observations. Additionally inquiry-based learning encourages students to think logically, critically, and analytically, which is helpful in increasing students’ critical thinking. Critical thinking is reasonable and reflective thinking focused on what to believe or do. Students with critical thinking skills can achieve incredible learning outcomes because they can consciously control their goals and attention. There are six dimensions of critical thinking, based on the assignment—experimental report, analysis dimension and explanation dimension will be assessed.

Research-based learning as an innovative approach for teaching students of environmental engineering: a case study of the emerging field of microplastics in soil

We implemented research-based learning (RBL) as an alternative to traditional frontal classroom lectures and laboratory sessions to impart knowledge on the emerging topic of microplastics in soil to students. The RBL module aimed at studying how microplastics (MPs) affect soil processes. We designed low-cost, small-scale and simple experiments for master’s students in Environmental Engineering at the Hamburg University of Technology. Students reported a clear understanding of concepts underlined by their presentation of the results and enthusiasm towards future exploration for their master’s or doctoral projects evidenced by a number of students carrying out research projects in the same field after finishing the module. The experiments were consequently published as an online learning module with the Hamburg Open Online University, to make them accessible for other students. The recent push in the education sector to include innovative teaching and learning methodologies offers new opportunities for RBL that are practical and replicable learning experiences that foster students’ research and problem-solving skills in areas of chemical, soil physics and environmental engineering fields.

Towards an Integrated Model for Orienting Preservice Science Teachers for 21st-Century Teaching

This conceptual paper builds the case for orienting preservice science teachers for 21<sup>st</sup>-century teaching on a footing of Miller et al. (2013) framework for science teacher preparation called the Model of Research-Based Education for Teachers (MORE for Teachers). MORE for Teachers frames science teacher preparation as anchored on four pillars: in-depth subject matter, research-based science teaching methods, guided practicum, and a shared vision of the pedagogy of science learning. Based on the limitations of Miller et al.'s linear model yet still maintaining the value of its central tenets the paper proposes a model that is interactive and framing standards in science teaching, curriculum development, rigorous content, research-based science methods course, and quality field experiences as the essential aspects for producing teacher candidates with the right skills for science teaching. The paper argues that pre-service science teachers (PSTs) development in teacher education colleges and universities requires a framework for harmonization that ensures consideration of all the necessary ingredients for science teacher preparation. Drawing on a diversity of literature sources on science teacher education the paper discusses the application of the proposed model in Zimbabwe, illustrating the importance of detailed methods courses, rigorous science content, expert mentoring, personal teaching philosophy, and a consideration of international trends in science teaching.  In conclusion, the paper recommends other contexts in which the integrated model for science teacher preparation can be used and some steps for its practical implementation.

Developing Students' Critical Thinking: Examining the Influence of Learning Management Approaches Through Meta-Analysis and Propensity Score Matching

Critical thinking is a skill that enables individuals to keep pace with changes and enhances crucial competencies for contemporary competitiveness. Many researchers have studied learning management approaches to develop students' critical thinking, resulting in a substantial body of knowledge but lacking clear systematic summaries. The researchers aimed to (a) examine the effect sizes and research characteristics influencing students' critical thinking, and (b) compare the effect sizes of learning management approaches after adjusting with propensity score matching from 108 graduate research published between 2002 and 2021. Data were collected using research characteristics recording forms and research quality assessment questionnaires. Effect sizes were calculated using Glass's method and analyzed through random effect, fixed effect, and regression meta-analysis. Findings revealed that (a) research on developing learning management approaches influences students' critical thinking at a high level (d ̅ = 1.669), with nine research characteristics, including the field of publication, courses, total duration, teacher learning process, learning media, measurement and evaluation, research design, research statistics, and research quality, statistically significantly influencing students' critical thinking, and (b) after adjustment, inquiry-based learning significantly influences students' critical thinking. Recommendations for developing students' critical thinking include learning activities that encourage problem exploration, expanding thinking through collaborative analysis, and applying diverse media and activity sheets tailored to context suitability.

Investigating the role of an inquiry-based science lab on students’ scientific literacy

Promotion of students’ scientific literacy has long been and continues to be a central goal for reform efforts in science education. Although there is a great number of research conducted to evaluate student’s scientific literacy, less is known about how we can improve students’ scientific literacy through variety of scientific practices. In this study we aimed to refer to this shortcoming in the literature by examining the effect of argument driven inquiry (ADI) instructional model to promote 8th grade students’ scientific literacy. A mixed method quasi experimental design was used in this study. Sixty-seven eighth grade students from the same public school attended the study. Two intact classes were randomly assigned either in structured inquiry (SI) or ADI groups. The data sources included a Scientific Literacy Assessment (SLA) and semi-structured interviews. The results indicated that students experiencing ADI instruction scored higher on the SLA-D test and personal epistemology dimension of SLA-MB test than students experiencing SI instruction. The results propose that engaging students in meaningful scientific practices may support their scientific literacy.

Exploration of science teaching self-efficacy outside professional development context for inquiry-based teaching

Exploration of science teaching self-efficacy outside professional development context for inquiry-based teaching

Pengembangan Modul Ajar Kurikulum Merdeka Topik Usaha Energi Berbasis Inkuiri Terintegrasi Keterampilan Kolaborasi

The problem in this study is how to create a learning tool that is able to increase the knowledge and skills of students and be able to increase the interest of students in participating in learning. The objectives of this study were (1) to develop teaching tools in the form of inquiry-based teaching modules, (2) to improve collaboration skills and (3) to improve students' communication skills after using inquiry-based teaching modules in learning effort and energy. This research is a development research using the 4D development model. The subjects of this research were students of class XI MAN 2 Lubuklinggau. The data collection technique used is in the form of validation sheets, and skill observation sheets. Validation obtained based on three validators, namely media experts 51, linguists 73 and material experts 47. Thus, the inquiry-based teaching module is very feasible to use as a learning tool. The results of collaboration skills amounted to 0.71 with a high category, while communication skills amounted to 0.74 with a high category. Based on the research conducted according to the data obtained, the development of inquiry-based teaching modules can improve collaboration skills and communication skills so that it is feasible to use in learning.

Inquiry-based Ethnoecological Conservation Approach to Improve Students' Critical Thinking Skills

This study explores the effectiveness of an inquiry-based ethnoecological conservation approach in enhancing critical thinking skills among students. Amidst growing concerns over environmental degradation, the integration of ethnoecological knowledge within educational frameworks emerges as a potent tool for fostering environmental stewardship and critical thinking. This research adopts a mixed methods design, engaging 45 secondary school students in a two-month pedagogical intervention that blends inquiry-based learning with ethnoecological insights. The intervention's impact on critical thinking was assessed using pretest-posttest analysis, supplemented by qualitative insights from student interviews. Quantitative results demonstrate a significant improvement in students' critical thinking skills post-intervention, with statistical analysis revealing a notable increase in mean scores and a reduction in score variability. This indicates not only an enhancement in critical thinking abilities but also a homogenization of skills across the participant group, underscoring the universal efficacy of the approach. Qualitative findings further enrich these results, with students reporting a deeper understanding of environmental issues, a stronger connection to cultural heritage, and a heightened sense of responsibility towards conservation efforts. The study highlights the transformative potential of integrating indigenous knowledge systems into environmental education, advocating for a pedagogical shift towards more inclusive, culturally relevant learning frameworks. By engaging students in a contextually rich exploration of ecological and cultural interconnections, the inquiry-based ethnoecological approach proves effective in cultivating critical thinking, thereby equipping students with the cognitive tools necessary to navigate and address complex environmental challenges. This research contributes to the evolving discourse on environmental education, offering valuable insights into the role of ethnoecology and inquiry-based learning in developing critical thinking skills and fostering a generation of informed and engaged environmental stewards.

The paradigm shift in science education: Namibian science teachers’ perceptions and experiences with inquiry-based instruction

This study explored Namibian science teachers’ perceptions of and approaches towards integrating inquiry-based instruction in science education. A survey questionnaire with 133 participants determined their opinions, attitudes, and beliefs revealing a strong preference for inquiry-based methods, with an average rating of 4.36 on a five-point Likert scale. Teachers emphasised its effectiveness in engaging learners, fostering critical thinking, and connecting scientific principles to real-world scenarios. The study examines key factors that impact the enactment of inquiry-based instruction, including teachers’ prior experiences, understanding of inquiry, and philosophical viewpoints on the nature of science. The findings from this study showed that the allocation of time in the curriculum, the behaviour of learners, and the availability of resources were recognised as important factors impeding the successful implementation of inquiry-based instruction. The study suggests tailored professional development to address challenges and enhance teachers’ ability to embrace inquiry-based practices effectively. These insights contribute to understanding determinants influencing innovative pedagogical approaches in Namibian science classrooms, informing educational policies and initiatives for teacher training in the country.

An Application Approach to Teaching Linear Algebra

This paper shares insights and experiences in developing and teaching a first-year applied linear algebra course. In addition to incorporating innovative pedagogical techniques like active and inquiry-based teaching and growth grading systems, this course implements modules and other activities which connect linear algebra concepts to applications such as computer graphics and sports analytics. These activities enhance students' experiences by providing them with clear applications of linear algebra concepts and the opportunity to learn accessible modeling techniques used by researchers. These application-centered activities have been incorporated as 50-minute lab modules or as short in-class activities and have been used across multiple modalities including asynchronous and synchronous online classes. This paper provides accessible examples and resources which can help instructors incorporate interesting applications and activities into a linear algebra course. We also provide suggestions and tips for incorporating these activities and pedagogical techniques.

The Use of Socioscientific Issues in Science Lessons: A Scoping Review

Socioscientific issues represent an innovative approach within the realm of STEM education as they integrate real-world problems, promote critical thinking, and encourage interdisciplinary learning, thus preparing students to address complex societal challenges through scientific inquiry. The objective of this scoping review was to analyze the use of SSIs in science lessons. A database search of Web of Science and Scopus focused on articles published between 2013 and 2023. When applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 106 articles were selected. The scoping review revealed a focus on socioscientific issues within high school and undergraduate curricula, particularly pertaining to environmental, genetic, and health-related concerns, as well as localized SSIs. A variety of methodological approaches, predominantly qualitative, were applied to capture the educational dynamics of integrating socioscientific issues into pedagogy. Inquiry-based learning emerges as a preferred pedagogical model, stimulating student engagement with real societal challenges. The educational resources employed encompass both conventional texts and digital tools, such as data mapping and visualization software, facilitating a multifaceted comprehension of SSIs. Pedagogical techniques are diverse, incorporating argumentation, role-playing, and digital media to enrich the teaching and learning experience. Nevertheless, the incorporation of socioscientific issues faces obstacles, including resistance to pedagogical innovation, the inherent complexity of the topics, and the demand for specialized teacher training.

What’s the Difference? A Comparison of Student-Centered Teaching Methods

Many approaches to teaching and learning are classified as student-centered. The current literature evaluates these methods in-depth either individually or by comparing two or three at a time. This article provides a comparison of multiple student-centered teaching methods, with examples, employed in contemporary education. The aim is to assess the key characteristics associated with different approaches by investigating five popular student-centered teaching methodologies: activity-based learning, inquiry-based learning, cooperative learning, problem-based learning, and project-based learning. The results enable educators to make informed decisions about instructional strategies and provide a stepping stone for further research.

Practice as Research through Inquiry-Based Learning: A Pedagogical Intervention with Music Students in Higher Education

This paper presents the results of a Participatory Action Research, whose main objective was to validate a pedagogical intervention characterized by adopting an inquiry-based learning methodology (IBL), and the paradigm of Practice as Research focused on musical performativity. This intervention sought to foster autonomy, the relationship between theory and practice, and the development of critical reflexive skills in professional music students. The co-participants (12 students in the first cycle and 9 in the second) belonged to university training programs in vocal and instrumental interpretation, composition, and music pedagogy at different levels. In the intervention cycles, students were able to organize themselves collaboratively to achieve the learning objectives and research products designed in the intervention. During the process, they redefined research as a tool for professional development in their discipline. This empowered the participants, as they became aware that they themselves could build knowledge in their field. The intervention was validated, and the results highlight the potential of inquiry activities focused on musical performativity and Practice as Research in the context of higher music education, playing an integrating role in the construction of knowledge by and for practitioners.

Exploring the impact of web-based inquiry on elementary school students’ science identity development in a STEM learning unit

One of the primary objectives of science education is to cultivate students’ science identity, and evidence points to the efficacy of inquiry-based learning in advancing this objective. Nevertheless, recent concerns have emerged regarding the effectiveness of information technology in supporting scientific research and its impact on students’ science identity. This study explores this domain through a comparative experiment conducted with fifth-grade students at a Chinese elementary school. Utilizing the Web-based Inquiry Science Environment (WISE) and the “Solar Oven” STEM learning unit, it scrutinizes the effects of web-based inquiry and traditional inquiry on students’ science identity development. The findings indicate that web-based inquiry is equally effective as traditional inquiry in fostering students’ science identity, especially in the two dimensions of “recognition” and “performance”. Notably, web-based inquiry surpasses traditional inquiry by significantly improving seven out of eleven assessed indicators, while traditional inquiry improves only four indicators. This research provides valuable insights into how integrating information technology within an inquiry-based learning environment can support Chinese elementary school students in developing their science identity. These results have significant implications for science education by demonstrating that web-based inquiry is a valuable approach for fostering science identity among elementary school students.

Ketrampilan Berpikir Kreatif: Suatu Kajian Literatur Sistematik

Creative thinking needs serious attention because it is one of the essential skills in the 21st Century that supports academic and professional success. This research aims to systematically review the literature regarding strategies for improving creative thinking in students. The study is a Systematic Literature Review (SRL) involving 15 journals published in 2018-2022 and examines the topic of creative thinking skills, improving creative thinking skills, or training creative thinking skills. The journal search was done using a search engine (Google Chrome). The data that has been collected will be analyzed descriptively according to the existing research questions—data analysis using meta-synthesis. The research results show that creative thinking is an idea-construction process emphasizing fluency, flexibility, originality and elaboration. Students' creative thinking abilities can be improved by implementing scientific learning strategies. Several learning models that can improve students' creative thinking abilities include Creative Problem problem-solving, Discovery Learning, Scientific Critical Creative Thinking Model, STEM-E Model, problem-solving learning and Contextual Learning, Problem-Based Learning, project-based Learning, Authentic Learning, and Research-Based Learning

Research-Based Learning for Developing Certain Skills of Future Military Officers

Today’s world is incredibly dynamic and constantly evolving. Rapid technological advances, vast information resources, changing market conditions and intense competition are forcing the acquisition of new skills. The primary mission of General Jonas Žemaitis Military Academy of Lithuania is to train, educate and inspire competent, motivated and educated Lithuanian officers leaders to lead in today‘s and tomorrow‘s battle field. Therefore, special attention is paid to developing the skills of future military officers, using innovative learning methods, which encourage participation and engagement in the study process. This publication focuses on the role of research-based learning in developing the certain skills of future military officers. To this end, the author draws on a comparative analysis of the scientific literature and on her personal experience of integrating researchbased learning into assignments of Defence Economics course. The author hopes that sharing her experience of using researchbased learning in the study process will encourage other lecturers to evaluate the possibilities of applying this method in their taught subjects.

From Classroom to Career: Quantifying the Role of Lifelong Learning in Job Market Success for Georgian University Graduates

This article explores the role of lifelong learning in enhancing Georgian university graduates' employability and career development. By integrating a comprehensive literature review with quantitative data analysis, the study identifies the gaps between current educational practices and the evolving demands of the global job market. It emphasi ses the need for higher education institutions to adopt curricula that foster practical skills, digital literacy, and continuous professional growth. The research findings suggest that aligning academic programs with real-world requirements, through inquiry-based learning and innovative teaching methodologies, significantly improves graduates' job market success and career progression. This study not only contributes to the academic discourse on lifelong learning but also provides actionable insights for educational policymakers and institutions aiming to bridge the theory-practice gap and prepare students for a dynamic and uncertain future.

الشك العلمي: عندما تتحول الهواجس العربية إلى ظاهرة عالمية.

The study underscores the pivotal role of education in addressing scientific skepticism and countering conspiracy theories prevalent in the Arab world and beyond. Education stands as a cornerstone in fostering critical thinking and rationality, crucial for discerning between information and misinformation. This research sheds light on the adverse effects of totalitarian regimes that stifle critical thought to perpetuate their authority. The global academic community is urged to advocate for educational curriculum reforms aimed at instilling a culture of inquiry and analytical thinking. Emphasizing scientific education and critical thinking is crucial in countering political conspiracy theories and skepticism toward scientific knowledge. Education stands as the antidote to countering scientific ignorance and cognitive biases often exploited by failing regimes in developing countries to justify their shortcomings. The research explores several critical questions: How can educational methodologies be redesigned to nurture critical thinking and combat intellectual ignorance in Arab societies? How can the emphasis on reliable evidence and scientific facts be amplified in decision-making processes, particularly concerning issues like the COVID-19 pandemic? To what extent is skepticism towards scientific studies a global phenomenon, and what are the underlying contributory factors? What impact do conspiracy theories have on the public's perception of scientific facts, and how can education and media literacy address this impact? Reforming educational curricula is imperative, redirecting them towards scientific methodologies, critical thinking, and inquiry-based learning. Such reforms are pivotal to combating intellectual ignorance and advancing scientific reasoning within societies.

Innovative Teaching Techniques for Alleviating Mathematics Phobia Among Secondary School Students in Anambra State

This study explores innovative teaching techniques to address mathematics phobia among secondary school students in Anambra State. Recognizing the pervasive impact of mathematics anxiety on academic performance and psychological well-being, the research focuses on the efficacy of two innovative approaches: inquiry-based learning and peer teaching. The study involves 50 secondary school students and employs a self-designed questionnaire validated by mathematics department lecturers, a measurement and evaluation expert, and an experienced secondary school teacher. Data collection was conducted through an online survey designed using Google Forms, providing a convenient and efficient method for participants to respond. Results from the online survey reveal insights into the comparative effectiveness of these techniques, highlighting gender-specific variations. Notably, peer teaching emerged as a more favorable technique. The slightly higher variability in scores in the peer teaching method, as indicated by the standard deviation, suggests that while it may lead to higher average performance, it also introduces greater variability, emphasizing the need for tailored approaches to accommodate diverse learning styles. The study contributes localized data to the broader literature, addressing gaps in understanding mathematics phobia in Anambra State. Findings aim to inform educators, policymakers, and practitioners about evidence-based strategies to create a positive and inclusive learning environment for mathematics in secondary schools.

Teachers' knowledge, perceptions, and practices in integrating elements of volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA) into language teaching

In today's constantly evolving educational environment, teachers face challenges due to the unpredictable and complex nature of the world. Volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA) characterize this era, influencing how people interact with information and navigate life. This descriptive study examined language teachers' knowledge, perceptions, and practices regarding the integration of VUCA elements into language teaching. One hundred language teachers participated by completing a questionnaire created by the researchers. The results showed that the teachers were "quite knowledgeable" about integrating VUCA elements and had a "positive perception" of it. Additionally, the study found that these teachers "always practiced" several strategies related to VUCA integration. These strategies included collaborative learning, multimodal instruction, developing language and intercultural competence, creating global connections, integrating technology, engaging in reflective practice, and pursuing continuous professional development. They also "often practiced" flexible lesson planning, fostering resilience and adaptability in learners, using problem-based and inquiry-based learning, employing dynamic assessment, and promoting authentic and real-world language use. Therefore, the extensive knowledge of language teachers allows them to design and implement learning environments that truly reflect the complexities of the real world.