How inquiry-based learning develops critical thinking in STEM subjects
Inquiry-based learning is a student-focused approach to STEM education – one designed to improve students’ development of critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
Unlike traditional teacher-led instruction, inquiry-based learning harnesses students’ natural curiosity and invites them to ask questions, design experiments, and draw their own conclusions.
Research has shown this hands-on, explorative approach makes learning more engaging and improves student outcomes.
But inquiry-based learning doesn’t just enhance critical skills development and subject mastery.
In the age of AI in education, it also reduces opportunities for plagiarism and encourages original work, supporting students’ intellectual growth further still.
Here’s what you need to know about inquiry-based learning – including what it is, why it works, and how to introduce it in your teaching practice.