PD time

As the ways of teaching and learning are changing with changing times, the words inquiry and inquiry learning are part of most teacher conferences. Inquiry is understood as a use of a variety of different strategies. The strateies can be useful if used at the right time and the right place. 

But I wonder - Are these all Inquiry?

Use of interactive hands on activities is an integral part of inquiry teaching. Meaningful leaning can take place through a lot of  different hands on activities, however it does not necassirily mean that inquiry is taking place. This was the notion that was in the minds of most of my teachers.

This lead to the designing of this PD session of comparing three different styles of instructions.

Learning goal of this PD was for teachers to understand and get a feel of how different hands on methods can lead to different learning paths. 

The teachers were rotated throught three stations, each with a differently designed task. Each station has similar materials like powder detergent, liquid detergent, egg beaters, scales, plates etc.

Station 1:  Guided station 

The teachers on this station were provided with a worksheet and specific instructions on how to make foam and specific questions comparing the two foams.

Station 2: Challenge 

Here the teacehrs were presented with a challenge to build a free standing 12 inch tower on the plate.

Station 3: Exploration and discovery

Here the teachers were asked to experiment making foam and observe. They were asked to observe, device questions and plan experiments with the foam.

(This station was provided with extra materials as shaving cream, electric beater, soda etc)

                           

After working on the different stations, the teachers gathered to discuss their success stories. We reflected on the experieince and shared our feelings. We compared the experiences at the three stations and reflected on the hands on learning experience.  

An experience that lead to a more in depth understanding of inquiry and how ew can as teachers provide opportunities of different kinds as per the needs of the students, as there is a place for all three types of Inquiry - Guided, Structured and Open inquiry at dfferent points of learning.