Inquiry Methods: A Preparatory Journey PDF

Inquiry Methods: A Preparatory Journey Welcome! This presentation guides you through inquiry methods aligned with contemporary inquiry-based learning frameworks. We'll explore techniques to develop critical thinking and systematic investigation skills. Get ready to engage with foundational approache...

Inquiry Methods: A Preparatory Journey Welcome! This presentation guides you through inquiry methods aligned with contemporary inquiry-based learning frameworks. We'll explore techniques to develop critical thinking and systematic investigation skills. Get ready to engage with foundational approaches to academic inquiry. Recap: Week 1 Highlights 1 Module Overview We explored the module's inquiry-based learning framework and assignment expectations. 2 Inquiry Resource Exploration You discovered collaborative digital tools and research platforms supporting investigative learning. 3 Inquiry-Based Learning Principles Introductory activities focused on understanding core IBL methodologies and student-driven exploration. 4 Inquiry Topic Selection You began identifying potential investigative topics, aligning with our inquiry-based learning approach. Week 1's Aim The goal of week 1 was to set the stage for your inquiry journey. We aimed to familiarise you with the module's structure and resources through an inquiry-based learning lens. We wanted to help you engage with foundational inquiry methods and conceptual frameworks. And we helped start your topic exploration process. This Week: Inquiry Methods This week, we dive into inquiry methods. We'll focus on techniques appropriate for your preparatory level within inquiry-based learning frameworks. Expect a balanced approach, exploring both qualitative and quantitative inquiry strategies that support active, student-driven learning. Remember, this is an introductory exploration of how we construct knowledge through systematic investigation. Learning Outcomes 1 Inquiry Method Selection 2 Qualitative Inquiry 3 Quantitative Inquiry Develop skills in choosing suitable Understanding Understanding inquiry methods aligned with Gain insights into qualitative Understand quantitative inquiry inquiry-based learning inquiry approaches and their role methods and their applications in frameworks. in student-centered learning. constructivist educational models. What is an Inquiry Method? An inquiry method is a strategic approach for systematically exploring and understanding information. It's a structured plan for generating knowledge through purposeful questioning and investigation. Choose your method carefully based on your inquiry question, aligning with inquiry-based learning frameworks that promote active, student-centered exploration. (Creswell, 2014) Selecting an Inquiry Method Inquiry Question Learning Evidence Learning Resources What are you trying to explore or What type of evidence will What learning resources and contexts understand? Your guiding question demonstrate understanding? are available? Time, access, shapes your inquiry approach. Qualitative insights, quantitative data, collaborative opportunities, and or visual representations? pedagogical expertise? Qualitative vs. Quantitative Inquiry Inquiry is often categorised into two main approaches. These are qualitative and quantitative methods, which align with inquiry-based learning frameworks. Understanding these differences is crucial. It guides your method selection based on your study's investigative goals. Qualitative Inquiry Qualitative inquiry explores complex phenomena in depth, aligning with inquiry-based learning frameworks. It seeks to understand experiences, perspectives, and meanings through interactive, student-centered methodologies. It uses non-numerical data such as interviews and observations to construct rich, contextual understanding (Bryman, 2012; Hmelo-Silver et al., 2007). Examples: Qualitative Inquiry 1 Interviews 2 Focus Groups 3 Case Studies Structured dialogues that Collaborative discussions that Contextualized explorations that promote deep reflection and enable collective knowledge support in-depth understanding meaning-making in inquiry-based construction and perspective and critical thinking within inquiry learning. sharing. frameworks. Quantitative Inquiry Quantitative inquiry focuses on numerical data and statistical analysis through systematic investigation. It aims to measure and quantify relationships between variables, aligning with inquiry-based learning frameworks that emphasize evidence-driven understanding and critical analysis (Creswell & Plano Clark, 2017). Examples: Quantitative Inquiry 1 Surveys 2 Experiments Collecting data through Systematically manipulating structured questioning to variables to explore causal generate investigative relationships in an inquiry- insights. driven process. 3 Statistical Analysis Critically examining numerical data to identify patterns and validate hypotheses within an inquiry-based framework. Qualitative vs. Quantitative: Inquiry Approaches Qualitative Inquiry Quantitative Inquiry Exploratory learning Confirmatory investigation Subjective understanding Objective measurement Interpretive meaning-making Systematic knowledge construction Combining Methods (Mixed Methods) Sometimes, the best approach is to combine both qualitative and quantitative inquiry methods. This allows for a more comprehensive understanding of complex problems through an inquiry-based learning framework. (Tashakkori & Teddlie, 2010) Example: Mixed Methods Inquiry An inquirer might conduct a survey (quantitative) to gather broad data. They might then conduct interviews (qualitative) to explore specific findings in more depth. This provides a richer understanding aligned with inquiry-based learning frameworks that emphasize multiple perspectives and deep exploration. Ethical Considerations in Inquiry Inquiry must always be conducted ethically. This includes obtaining informed consent. It involves protecting participant privacy and ensuring confidentiality. In inquiry-based learning frameworks, ethical considerations are fundamental to creating a safe, respectful learning environment where participants can explore and construct knowledge collaboratively. Validity and Reliability in Inquiry Validity refers to the accuracy of your inquiry findings. Are you measuring what you intend to measure through your investigative methods? Reliability refers to the consistency of your results. Can your inquiry be replicated and validated across different contexts? Data Analysis in Inquiry Data analysis is a critical component of inquiry-based learning, involving systematic organisation and interpretation of collected data. For qualitative inquiry, this might involve thematic analysis, while quantitative inquiry employs statistical techniques to understand patterns and draw meaningful insights. Reporting Your Inquiry Findings Clearly and accurately report your inquiry findings. Use appropriate tables, charts, and figures aligned with inquiry-based learning frameworks. Explain your methodological approaches and limitations. Acknowledge any potential biases in your investigative process. Inquiry Design An inquiry design is your roadmap for answering your investigative question. It outlines how you will collect and analyse your data. A well-planned design ensures a rigorous, learner-centered approach to systematic exploration. Examples of Inquiry Design Methods 1 Descriptive Inquiry 2 Longitudinal Exploration 3 Experimental Investigation Data collected at a single point to Data collected over time to track Systematically manipulating understand current perspectives. learning progressions and variables to understand causal developmental changes. relationships in learning. Sampling Techniques Sampling involves selecting a subset of the population to study within inquiry-based learning frameworks. Different techniques exist, such as random sampling and convenience sampling, which help learners systematically investigate questions and develop critical thinking skills. Choose a technique appropriate for your specific inquiry approach. Inquiry Methods Surveys 1 Structured investigations gathering systematic feedback Interviews 2 In-depth dialogues exploring individual perspectives Observations 3 Direct, contextual examination of real-world phenomena Experiments 4 Controlled interventions testing hypothetical relationships These inquiry methods align with inquiry-based learning frameworks, emphasizing active exploration, critical thinking, and learner-driven investigation. Surveys: Key Inquiry Considerations Question Design Sample Size Response Rate Crafting clear, concise, and unbiased Selecting a sufficient sample ensures A high response rate minimizes bias questions is fundamental to inquiry- representative insights that support and strengthens the validity of inquiry- based learning approaches. systematic inquiry. driven investigations. Interviews: Inquiry-Based Approach Structured Inquiry Guide Collaborative Dialogue Reflexive Documentation Develop a flexible framework that Create a supportive environment that Capture nuanced insights that reveal supports open-ended, reflective encourages participant-driven deeper learning processes and questioning. exploration. perspectives. Inquiry Observations: Key Considerations Reflective Awareness Comprehensive Ethical Engagement Documentation Recognize and mitigate personal Ensure participant autonomy and biases in systematic inquiry processes. Capture nuanced observations aligned informed consent in educational with inquiry-based learning inquiry. frameworks. Inquiry: Key Considerations Observation & Questioning Collaborative Learning Student-Driven Exploration Encourage active questioning and Promote peer interaction and shared Enable learners to design and guide systematic observation. knowledge construction. their own inquiry processes. Key Takeaways 1 Inquiry Method 2 Qualitative & Selection Quantitative Inquiry Choose methods aligned Understand the differences with inquiry-based learning between approaches within frameworks and your constructivist and specific inquiry question. interpretive learning paradigms. 3 Ethical Inquiry Practices Prioritise ethical considerations and student agency in your inquiry-based learning process. Next Steps Reflect on the inquiry methods discussed. Consider how they align with inquiry-based learning frameworks like the Productive Thinking Model and the 5E Instructional Model. Start planning your inquiry design by mapping out essential questions and potential investigative strategies. Consult the provided resources for further guidance on structured, reflective inquiry approaches. Inquiry References Bryman, A. (2012). Social inquiry methods. Oxford University Press. Creswell, J. W. (2014). Inquiry design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches. Sage publications. Creswell, J. W., & Plano Clark, V. L. (2017). Designing and conducting mixed methods inquiry. Sage publications. Tashakkori, A., & Teddlie, C. (2010). Sage handbook of mixed methods in social & behavioral inquiry. Sage.