How I Will Use Inquiry and Research In My Language Classroom
Learning is effective if it is fueled by interest, and if one is driven by curiosity, everything becomes interesting to discover. According to John Dewey's experiential learning theory, learning takes place by doing; thus, it happens if the learner is intrinsically motivated, as the self-determination theory states.
Classroom activities such as experimentations, debates, jigsaw learning or reporting, concept maps, and creating questions are examples of inquiry-based learning. Instead of passive and low cognitive level learning, learners are encouraged to think critically and creatively through exploration or discovery and research. By allowing students to find answers themselves, inquiry fosters a deeper engagement and a desire to learn more.
Research deepens understanding by engaging learners in a rigorous process that includes formulating specific problems, gathering data, analyzing information, interpreting results, and drawing conclusions. This process actively challenges their cognitive abilities and requires patience, time, and effort to come up with an accurate answer. Research encourages a deeper and more thorough comprehension of the subject matter, which promotes long-term retention and critical thinking skills.
Implementing inquiry-based and research-based learning can be challenging. One significant hurdle is the time required for these approaches, as they demand more in-depth investigation and analysis. Additionally, the success of these methods relies on the genuine interest of the learners, which can be difficult to cultivate and maintain.
To overcome these challenges: (1) I must allocate sufficient time for inquiry and research activities within the curriculum. Break down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps and provide structured timelines to keep students on track. (2) Connect learning to real-world applications and students' interests to increase engagement. Use varied and interactive activities to maintain their enthusiasm and motivation. (4) Provide teachers with adequate training and resources to effectively implement IBL and RBL. This includes strategies for facilitating inquiry, guiding research, and assessing student learning. And lastly, (5) ensure that students have access to the necessary resources, such as libraries, online databases, and technology, to conduct their research effectively.
The world has become increasingly advanced which is why we need improvement in the teaching and learning process. Active learning is crucial in the 21st century, pedagogical approaches like IBL and RBL could greatly help so that learners attain the 21st-century skills necessary for real-world application. Future teachers need to be equipped with the skills to foster active learning environments, where students are motivated to think critically and creatively. Active learning encourages students to become independent thinkers and problem-solvers, preparing them for the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing world. By promoting active learning, we future teachers, can empower our students to take ownership of their education and develop a lifelong love of learning.