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  • Writer's pictureCat Orias

Enhance Your STEAM and Coding Experience With Inquiry-Based Learning


Inquiry-based learning has been shown to provide several advantages in STEAM and coding subjects. Here are five of the best benefits:


What Is Inquiry-Based Learning?


Inquiry-based learning, also known as “discovery learning,” is a student-centered approach to teaching and learning in which students are encouraged to ask questions and explore their interests in order to discover knowledge and understanding of the world around them.

Inquiry-based learning is a great way to get students excited about STEAM and coding. It allows them to explore these topics in a way that is relevant to them, helps them develop problem solving skills, and fosters a love of learning.



Why Inquiry-Based Learning Matters for STEAM and Coding


Inquiry-based learning is a teaching strategy that encourages students to ask questions, explore solutions and solve problems. It is an approach that is particularly well-suited for STEAM and coding subjects, where creativity, critical thinking and collaboration are key.


Here are five reasons why inquiry-based learning matters in STEAM and coding:


1. Inquiry-based learning helps students develop problem-solving skills.

2. Inquiry-based learning encourages creativity and innovation.

3. Inquiry-based learning teaches collaboration and teamwork.

4. Inquiry-based learning fosters critical thinking skills.

5. Inquiry-based learning supports lifelong learning.


Benefits of Inquiry-Based Learning in STEAM and Coding


When you engage in inquiry-based learning, you're not just learning facts or taking someone's word for it. You're actively questioning, exploring and investigating the world around you, and that's a valuable skill that can be applied in any area of life.


In STEAM and coding subjects in particular, inquiry-based learning can help you develop the problem-solving and critical thinking skills you need to succeed. It can also help you learn how to:


-Think outside the box

-Work collaboratively

-Ask questions and seek answers

-Accept feedback and constructive criticism



Advantages of Inquiry-Based Learning in STEAM and Coding


By now, it's becoming clear that inquiry-based learning offers a number of advantages in STEAM and coding. Inquiry-based learning encourages students to be curious and ask questions, rather than memorizing facts and figures. This helps to instill in them a habit of critical thinking, which they can take with them throughout their education and beyond.

Furthermore, inquiry-based learning encourages collaboration — something that is key in STEAM and coding projects. Working with others not only helps to foster communication skills, it also helps with problem-solving as each person brings their own unique insights to the table.


Lastly, inquiry-based learning encourages trial and error — something that is crucial for students to learn if they are going to become successful coders or engineers. By being able to test out different solutions, students can develop confidence in their abilities, which will help them become successful learners in the future.



Examples: How Inquiry-Based Learning Is Applied in STEAM and Coding


Let's look at some examples of how inquiry-based learning can be applied in STEAM and coding. For starters, you could use it to help students design and build an augmented reality app. By allowing them to explore and experiment with different elements, such as 3D design, coding algorithms, and user experience design, they can use their creative problem-solving skills to come up with a unique solution that they can be proud of.


In addition, you could also use inquiry-based learning in robotics or artificial intelligence (AI) projects. By giving students the freedom to experiment and explore different elements of the project on their own terms, they will be able create something unique and innovative. This will help them develop the critical thinking skills that are so important for success in this ever-changing world.



Strategies to Introduce Inquiry-Based Learning Into Your Learning Process


If you're looking to introduce inquiry-based learning into your learning process, there are several strategies you can use. First, start by asking yourself open-ended questions such as “What is the best way to understand this concept?” and “What resources could I use to learn more?” This can help you identify which areas of your curriculum need further exploration.

Next, create a plan of action that incorporates both independent and collaborative efforts. For example, introduce group discussions into your lessons where students will be able to debate different perspectives and ask each other questions. You can also formulate activities that will help students develop critical thinking skills, such as analyzing patterns and visualizing data sets. As students work through their activities, encourage them to come up with new theories or potential solutions.


Ultimately, emphasizing the importance of inquiry-based learning in STEAM and coding can produce rewarding results for both teachers and students alike!



Conclusion


When it comes to STEAM and coding education, inquiry-based learning has a lot to offer. It helps students develop problem-solving skills, encourages them to ask questions, and helps them learn through exploration. Inquiry-based learning also helps students develop a better understanding of STEAM and coding concepts.


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