Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL) places the student at the center of the learning experience. There are four primary phases to inquiry-based learning activities. These include student identification of a question or problem of interest, student-led research of the topic, student presentation of their knowledge/solution, and student evaluation of the accuracy while reformulating a new approach to the problem if needed. Some of the initial phases may be included in a lesson but all four do not need to be incorporated each time. As a classroom teacher, it is your responsibility to act as a guide or facilitator and support students as they move through this process.
For this assignment, you can either use the theme from Topic 2 (Weather and climate) or select a new STEM subject/theme.
Complete the “ECE-660 Inquiry-Based Student Centers” template. Within each station complete the following:
Standard and Objective: Identify which STEM subject or theme, standard with coding and full description, and objective will be used in the activity.
Activity: Name and short explanation of the activity and how it is developmentally appropriate and supports young children’s learning.
Directions: Step-by-step student directions you would print and leave at the station.
Materials: A link to or a picture of the activity you created. This can also be a picture of a digital mockup. List all materials needed for the center.
Rationale: Explain what phase of the inquiry-based learning model this activity involves and how it engages the student in analyzing their own learning progress and uses responsive interactions and activities to facilitate participation and engagement.
Support your work with 3-5 resources.