Inquiry-based learning is a learner-focused approach that emphasizes curiosity, questioning, and exploration instead of relying on direct instruction. Rather than leading from the front, the teacher takes on a guiding role, supporting students as they investigate real-world issues, ask meaningful questions, and build understanding through their own discovery (Australian Government). 

Active learning is central to learning because it requires students to actively engage with the material rather than passively receiving information. Instead of simply having knowledge explained to them, students are encouraged to seek meaning and demonstrate understanding through interactive activities. In our design, students act out scenarios related to the bystander effect, allowing them to represent and apply what they have learned, which helps deepen their understanding. Questioning and explanation are also essential to the learning process, as curiosity drives students to ask questions and search for solutions, making the information more meaningful and easier to retain. Additionally, collaboration plays a key role in inquiry-based learning. By working together, students can share ideas, give and receive feedback, and reinforce their understanding through discussion (Weller). In our learning design blueprint, we intentionally build in opportunities for collaboration, encouraging students to work with one another for a significant portion of the lesson to enhance engagement and support deeper overall learning.

When using inquiry-based learning, students begin by coming up with questions they are genuinely curious about, which guides their learning process. They then research and investigate by exploring their question. Next, they create and analyze information to come up with an answer, they share their findings, and reflect on what they learned. This is a great way for students to deepen their overall understanding (“Inquiry-Based Learning | Centre for Teaching and Learning”). 

For our learning design blueprint, the focal point of our learning styles was not inquiry-based learning, but I could see how incorporating it into our lesson plan would be beneficial for the students. By encouraging learners to ask their own questions, explore ideas more deeply, and reflect on their understanding, inquiry-based elements could increase student engagement and promote deeper, more meaningful learning alongside the instructional approaches we already value

Works Cited

Australian Government. “Inquiry-Based Learning.” Department of Education, 2023, www.education.gov.au/australian-curriculum/national-stem-education-resources-toolkit/i-want-know-about-stem-education/what-works-best-when-teaching-stem/inquiry-based-learning.

“Inquiry-Based Learning | Centre for Teaching and Learning.” Queensu.ca, 2025, www.queensu.ca/ctl/resources/instructors/instructional-strategies/inquiry-based-learning.

Weller, David. “What Is Inquiry-Based Learning?” Www.barefootteflteacher.com, 18 Mar. 2023, www.barefootteflteacher.com/p/what-is-inquiry-based-learning.