Inquiry-Based Learning: Research
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Inquiry-Based Learning: Research
inquirED
Inquiry-based learning includes a family of approaches: project-based learning, problem-based learning, and design-based learning. inquirED has developed our curriculum out of a growing body of evidence that demonstrates the power of inquiry-based practices to improve student outcomes, encourage deeper understanding, increase student engagement, and narrow the achievement gap.
Key Takeaways
Below is a brief survey of key research findings regarding the effectiveness of inquiry-based learning practices.
Inquiry-Based Learning Research Highlights
- In 2008, Stanford researchers examined 20 years of research on the effectiveness of inquiry-based learning in improving student outcomes. Across all research, they found that students learn more deeply when they apply classroom-gathered knowledge to real-world problems and that inquiry-based practices have a more significant impact on student performance than any other variable, including student background and prior achievement.
- A 2016 meta-analysis by Ard W. Lazonder and Ruth Harmsen, synthesized 72 empirical studies examining the power of inquiry-based learning, finding that teacher-supported, inquiry-based instruction was consistently more effective than other pedagogies at improving learning outcomes amongst students.
- In a 1996 study of elementary, middle, and high school students, researchers found that the use of inquiry-based, authentic practices not only improved student outcomes but also narrowed the achievement gap between high and low-performing students.
- A June 2017 study examining student outcomes in social studies and reading showed that students within an inquiry-based learning control group showed statistically significantly higher growth in social studies.
- In a July 2010 study gauging the effectiveness of problem-based learning, students who engaged in inquiry performed better on assessments of problem-solving skills and standardized tests.
- A 2019 student on inquiry-based and problem-based learning found that in the classes that used inquiry-based instruction at least four days a week, student outcomes improved significantly more than students in traditional classes.
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Inquiry Journeys, inquirED's K-5 social studies curriculum, engages students in inquiry-based learning, strengthens literacy skills, and supports teachers every step of the way.
inquirED was founded by teachers with the mission of bringing inquiry-based social studies to every classroom. Inquiry Journeys, inquirED’s elementary social studies curriculum, is used in schools and districts across the country to help students develop deep social studies content knowledge and build the inquiry skills that are essential for a thriving democracy.
