Malino Khun 1Round Table11/2/2009

Round Table Topic: Inquiry-based Learning/EducationDefinition: The process of learning that involves the learner constructing knowledge based on their interest, curiosity and life experience. The learner is the active agent in the process. Centered on the research process.

Key concepts and terms associated with Inquiry-based Learning: Active learning, Project learning, Discovery learning, Inquiry-based instruction, Inquiry-based education, Constructivism (learning theory).

Key areas and Points: 1) The learner investigates a topic or subject based on their interest or curiosity, which is typically rooted in their personal experience 2) The learner researches the topic or subject based on questions posed or created by them. Teachers often will collaborate with learners to help form questions.3) The learner constructs the meaning of the knowledge they acquire. 4) Teachers act as guides and facilitators in the process. 5) Learners typically share their findings with their class or group.

ISBE Standards for Library Information Specialist: Information Access and Delivery:Knowledge Indicators-1A. Knows current and developmentally appropriate resources and the strategies for guiding the intellectual access to information. Performance Indicators- 1G. Anticipates and responds effectively to requests for assistance in using ideas and information.

Essential Skills and Attitudes:Curiosity. Troth Seeking. Sustained Intellectual Activity. Thoughtful Planning. Reflection and Self-Monitoring. Open-Mindedness. (Harda and Yoshina, 16).

Librarian’s Role:1) Collaboration. The challenge for librarian is greater because inquiry based learning takes more time, is less predictable, and requires greater support. A learning environment that is safe and organized is required. 2) Teaching. Help develop an inquiry attitude that emphasizes asking good questions. Much of it relies on educational psychology and teaching theories. 3) Collection Development, Access and Delivery. Ensure that materials and equipment are available for teachers and student to accomplish their learning goals. 4) Leadership and Professional Development. Provide professional development to teachers. Be a leader in fostering inquiry in the school community. Reach out to parents to advocate for inquiry-based learning.

How Do We Facilitate Learning?Direct Instruction. Modeling. Interaction. Guided Practice. Independent Practice. Feedback and Continual Improvement. (Harda and Yoshina, 78).

Malino Khun 2Round Table11/2/2009

Bibliography: Brigham Young University’s Center for Teaching & Learning. “Inquiry-based Learning.”

Center for Teaching and Learning Website. http://ctl.byu.edu/home/information/teaching-learning-strategies/inquiry-learning/ (accessed October 24, 2009). The education enhancement website of the Center for Teaching & Learning at Brigham Young University, the center is dedicated to improving student learning by, “assisting BYU faculty, instructors, and administrators.” It features a good introductory overview on inquiry-based learning.

Donham, Jean, Kay Bishop, Carol Collier Kuhlthau, and Dianne Oberg. Inquiry-Based Learning: Lessons from Library Power. Worthington, Ohio: Linworth Publishing, 2001. An introductory text on Inquiry-based learning oriented towards school libraries and media specialist. More theory oriented.

Fontichiaro, Kristin. "Nudging toward Inquiry: Re-envisioning Existing Research Projects." School Library Monthly 26, no. 1 (September 2009): 17-19. Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts with Full Text, EBSCOhost (accessed October 24, 2009). An introductory article on how a school librarian can promote inquiry in education by encouraging minor changes (i.e. nudges) among teachers and the school environment. The article is the first in a series of articles called “Nudging toward Inquiry.”

Harda, Violet H., and Joan M. Yoshina. Inquiry Learing through Librarian-Teacher Partnerships. Worthington, Ohio: Linworth Publishing, 2004. An introductory book on teacher-librarian collaborations in regards to inquiry-based leaning. Contains step by step instructions and is more practically oriented than Donham’s book.

Stripling, Barbara. "Inquiry: Inquiring Minds Want to Know." School Library MediaActivities Monthly 25, no. 1 (September 2008): 50-52. Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts with FulText, EBSCOhost (accessed October 24, 2009). A journal article discussing inquiry-based learning in the context of school libraries and the AASL Standards for 21St Century-Learner.

Stripling, Barbara. "Inquiry-based Teaching and Learning--The Role of the Library Media Specialist."

School Library Media Activities Monthly 25, no. 1 (September 2008): 2. Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts with Full Text, EBSCOhost (accessed October 24, 2009). An article intended to complement the author’s "Inquiry: Inquiring Minds Want to Know" article. Presents guidelines and suggestions for school librarians on promoting inquiry-based learning.