Author(s): Simmons, Angie

Digital Literacy

Inquiry learning is rapidly becoming a popular strategy to deliver the curriculum. Current research suggests that when students are at the centre of the learning process and learning is based on authentic tasks that connect to their lives in a meaningful way, they are more switched on to the learning process. Through rich exploratory tasks based on an authentic and real world topic, students can engage in deeper learning â going beyond fact gathering to analyse, question and evaluate. Inquiry learning also encourages multiple perspectives rather than assuming right or wrong answers. It should involve students in collaborative learning as they work in groups. Students are encouraged to engage in higher order thinking with skilful questioning, analysing and reflecting on data gathered. Inquiry learning should challenge the learner. Add to this effective strategy the extra dimension that lOT brings to the learning process and you have created a highly productive learning environment. There are ICT tools to enhance every phase of inquiry learning. The Internet, for instance, is a rich source of data and offers quality inquiry learning websites as well. A variety of educational, desktop publishing and movie-making software can assist with gathering, exploring, recording and presenting data. Graphic organisers and activities can help students organise and understand their information at all phases of the inquiry. Rubrics may also form part of the assessment process. Inquiry Learning and ICT suggests a range of ideas for how to make these tools integral to the inquiry learning process so that these two strong learning components bring out the best in each other - and in your students.