1. Inquiry learning Does IBL work?
Tool IB-1: Exploring the benefits of IBL
© 2016 mascil project (G.A. no ). Lead partner University of Nottingham; CC-NC-SA 4.0 license granted. The project mascil has received funding from the European Union’s Seventh Framework Programme (FP7/ ).

2. Overview Aim: To explore the learning benefits of an IBL approach.
We will:
Compare two different teaching approaches;
Discuss the characteristics of IBL classrooms.
The aim of this tool is to help the group explore the learning benefits that might be supported by the IBL approach. The tool involves a discussion activity in which the group examine two teaching approaches in the same content area. One is based around an IBL approach, the other a more ‘traditional’ one. The tool is most suited to teachers of science, although many of the issues would also apply in mathematics.

3. Characterising an IBL classroom
Student led inquiry
Tackling unstructured problems
Learning concepts through IBL
Questioning that promotes reasoning
Students working collaboratively
Building on what students already know
Self and peer assessment
Begin by discussing with the teachers the characteristics of teaching environments that use IBL approaches. Refer back to Tool IA-1: Characterising an IBL classroom if this has been completed previously. If not, present the generally accepted view that in such environments some or all of the following will be seen:
Student led inquiry
Tackling unstructured problems
Learning concepts through IBL
Questioning that promotes reasoning
Students working collaboratively
Building on what students already know
Self and peer assessment

4. Two approaches to teaching corrosion of metals
Compare the two approaches to teaching corrosion of metals. Discuss the questions on the handout and make a note of your responses.
In the light of this characterisation of IBL, ask the teachers to consider the two outline approaches to teaching the corrosion of metals in the Handout: Two approaches to teaching the corrosion of metals and then to complete the questions on the handout.

5. Discussion Share your responses and consider the questions:
How can the IBL approach help to stimulate curiosity?
How can IBL provide a vehicle for teaching about how scientists work?
Discuss the outcomes from considering the two sequences with the whole group of teachers. In addition to the characteristics listed, encourage them to think about how far the IBL approach might help to stimulate curiosity and serve as a vehicle for teaching about how scientists work.

6. Finishing off
Think about ways of moving your own practice towards an IBL approach. Are there aspects of IBL that you could include? Consider lessons you will be teaching in the near future and modifications you could make. Be ready to report back at the next session on a lesson where you have increased your use of IBL approaches.
The challenges associated with the second sequence may be felt to be too great for some, even if they can see benefits. If so, encourage teachers to think initially about ways of moving their practice in small ways to include more aspects of IBL. Ask them to consider lessons they will be teaching in the near future and make modifications designed to foster more inquiry. Where possible, ask all teachers to report back to the group on lessons where they have increased their use of IBL approaches.