EDUC3221 Lecture 8: Reading 8
Document Summary
Inquiry-based science challenges students" thinking by engaging them in investigating scientifically orientated questions where they learn to give priority to evidence, evaluate explanations in the light of alternative explanations and learn to communicate and justify their decisions. These are dispositions needed to promote and justify their decisions. "scientific inquiry requires the use of evidence, logic, and imagination in developing explanations about the natural world" (newman et al. , 2004, p. 258). Teachers can gauge the success of their teaching through students" level of engagement with the topic and each other, the scientific language they use to communicate their ideas, and the quality of the work they produce. I really liked the way we did" are typical of the types of comments students will make when they have enjoyed participating in science investigations. The principles are the same -- the need to excite and engage students" attention so they want to investigate the topic is critically important at any age.
