INQUIRY

Inquiry:
Inquiring Minds Want to Know
Domonique Payan
LBS 203

References
Stripling, B. (2008). Inquiry: Inquiring Minds Want to know. Journal of Scool Library Media
Activities, XXV(1), 50-52.

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Summary
On a daily bases, most teachers ask their students, what information are you missing?".
The latter question is often posed in hopes of providing the student with an answer. This
approach fills the students void but doesnt really give them a great understanding of the answer.
This is often the case when students are fed answers instead of challenged in an inquisitive
nature. The article Inquiry: Inquiring Minds Want to Know, by Barbara Stripling gives insight to
what an inquisitive approach and process entails. Based on the reading "inquiry is a process of
learning that is driven by questioning, thoughtful investigating, making sense of information and
developing knew understandings" (Stripling). What this means is that inquiry is not about finding
answers through the amount of information given. It is about drawing connections and asking
questions based on your understanding of the information.
What is an inquiry approach?
The inquiry approach is an approach that puts the student in the drivers seat. It
empowers students to yearn for knowledge by coming up with their own questions and actively
seeking out answers. This is accomplished by developing a plan for investigation, analyzing and
organizing the information in order to draw a conclusion. Once they arrive at their conclusion
they assimilate what they found, with what they presently know. This newfound knowledge is
then shared with others and ultimately reflected upon, which possibly leads to further questions.
What are some benefits of an inquiry approach?
The inquiry approach is an approach that works with all learners regardless of their
knowledge base. It encourages students to be actively engaged in the learning process. This
engagement is likely because the students come up with the question, which ultimately tailors the

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learning process to fit their needs. This approach transforms the learning process and provides
students with the opportunity to work independently, instead of being pulled along through a
systematic learning process.
Do you agree that an inquiry approach will enhance the understanding of content and
acquisition of life-long learning skills?
I believe the inquiry approach does enhance the understanding of content and
acquisition of life-long learning skills because it provides a much needed spark that entices
the student to want to learn and seek out new knowledge (Stripling). I say this because it gives
the students the power to change the learning process. I think anytime you can give students a
voice, by allowing them to change the learning process, they become more vested in their
studies.