Introduction
This week we will focus on teaching problem solving through inquiry based interactions, discovery and questioning. This model uses real-world contexts (problems) for in-depth- inquiry based investigations within a specific subject matter (academic domain). Often, problem based inquiry models start with an ill structured problem that serves as the impetus for a group to start their inquiry to find a "solution" to the problem. Proponents of Problem-Based Inquiry learning indicate that it helps students develop their critical thinking skills and creativity, improves problem solving skills, fosters self-motivation, helps students develop a model that can be used to solve other, similar, problems (transfer of knowledge). Common problem-based inquiry pedagogical models rely on several factors. First, the teacher selects the problem, performs research and acts as the "expert" and resource/ coach to the students as they investigate and research data to develop a hypothesis to solve the problem.
Inquiry Based Problem Solving Powerpoint
Task
Now that you have a basic understanding of problem based models, you will explore a variety of inquiry based pedagogical models. Your group will then select one model you would create a 5-10 minute mini lesson plan. Use Screencastify or Screencast-o-matic to video your mini lesson. Use the model selected to teach a California Common Core standard. Remember to incorporate differentiation and UDL. (Be sure to differentiate for an EL, a student with a specific special need, and a gifted student). Once you have created your mini lesson, share it with your instructor on your weekly activity google doc as a link.
Process
Model #1- De Bono's 6 Thinking Hats
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oHiwpz7r4wY&feature=youtu.be
Model # 2: Brainstorming in the classroom
Model #3: IDEAL Problem Solving Technique
Model # 4: How to Create a Webquest
Model # 5: Problem-Based Inquiry
Evaluation
Once you have explored the various problem based inquiry models shared, choose one, create your mini lesson and present it. You will receive up to three points. The first point is for demonstrating the model correctly, the second is for clearly covering the chosen content (whatever you picked), and the third is for incorporation of differentiation and UDL.
Conclusion
According to Estes & Mintz (2015) problem-based inquiry models allows the focus of learning to be derived from questions and the question for a solution rather than focusing on the "answer". The ultimate goal is to have students engaged in the learning process, taking ownership of their learning and giving them agency in their quest for solutions to ill structured real-life problems.