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Inquiry-Based Learning

A pedagogy where the lesson starts with a question or problem and students investigate, hypothesise and arrive at understanding — rather than receiving information first.

Inquiry-based learning is one of the foundations of the Oxford International Curriculum. A Class 3 science lesson on 'Why do leaves fall in autumn?' begins with the question, leads to observation in the school garden, and ends with each child drawing their own conclusion before the teacher consolidates the science behind it.

Related terms

Project-Based Learning (PBL)

An approach where students learn by working over an extended period on a project that answers a complex question or solves a real problem.

Activity-Based Learning

Teaching where the child does (manipulates, experiments, plays, builds) rather than only listens, especially in the early years.