Types of inquiry-based learning

Even though inquiry-based science education is based on students' curiosity and their experimentation, teachers still play a crucial role in delivering the inquiry-based science lesson. There are different levels of instructions that teachers can provide to their students and these can be classified as different types of inquiry-based learning. There are 3 types of inquiry that are commonly used in inquiry-based instruction:

1. Structured inquiry

Learners are given the question and the method of achieving the result, but the goal is to provide an explanation that is already supported by the evidence gathered during and through the investigative process.

2. Guided inquiry

Learners are only given a question. The main goal is to design the method of investigation and then test the question itself. This type of inquiry is not typically as structured as the previously mentioned type.

3. Open inquiry

Learners must form their questions, design investigative methods, and then carry out the inquiry itself. They must present their results at the end of the process.

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