Thoughts on Inquiry Base Learning (IBL)
As a Technology Education instructor, with a focus on
engineering, robotics and architecture, I have a very open-ended program in which
I allow advanced students some freedom in choosing projects and programs. When I first started reading about IBL, it
reminded me a lot of what I do in the classroom with one major exception: I provide students with the topics that I
want them to research. I have come to
realize, after reading this past week, that this is more of a PBL (Project
Based Learning) format than that of an IBL format.
In reading the Inquiry Page ( illinois.edu ), I also came to realize that the two (IBL
and PBL) are not necessarily all that different, but that they incorporate many
of the same features with the primary exception that the student has more
control over what they are learning. I
also noticed a major similarity in what the article refers to as the “spiral
path of inquiry” (illinois.edu) and what I work with as a “universal systems model”.
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| Spiral Path of Inquiry |
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| Universal Systems Model |
I think that in looking at the practice of IBL, it is better
suited for mid to advanced level projects and processes, after the foundation
has been laid for what the students not only should, but need to know to
proceed. In trying to explain IBL to a
parent who is with me this week, I used an example that fits him. He is a professional welder.
I put it like this:
After you teach the students the basic types of welding, and some
material properties, you have them develop an item that requires “x” number of
welds (different types), and “y” number of materials (again, different types),
then be able to justify the selections to the class and yourself. This gives the student the freedom to investigate
materials and welds, create their own project, discuss options, reflect on both
partial and completed items, and ask for assistance and guidance.
While I believe that I have a grasp on what Inquiry Based
Learning is, I am still not certain of the distinction between that and Project
Based Learning, and the implementation differences between the two. I am hoping to clarify that as the course
progresses.
http://www.cii.illinois.edu/InquiryPage/
