Inquiry is the process scientists use to learn
about the natural world. Students can also learn about the world
using inquiry. Although they rarely discover knowledge that is
new to humankind, current research indicates that students engaged
in inquiry discover knowledge new to themselves.
Student inquiry is a multifaceted activity
that involves making observations; posing questions; examining
books and other sources of information to see what is already
known; planning investigations; reviewing what is already known
in light of the student's experimental evidence; using tools to
gather, analyze and interpret data; proposing answers, explanation,
and predictions; and communicating the results. Inquiry requires
identification of assumptions, use of critical and logical thinking,
and consideration of alternative explanations.
As a result of participating in inquiries,
students will increase their understanding of the science subject
matter investigated, gain an understanding of how scientists study
the nature world, develop the ability to conduct investigations,
and develop the habits of mind associated with science.
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