If you've been toying with the notion of using inquiry-based learning in your classroom but don't know where to start, then the Learning Skills series of modules is for you.  In about 15 minutes, each module shows you how real teachers around Ohio are using inquiry learning with their students. And you'll learn specific techniques--based on Robert Marzano's research-proven strategies from Classroom Instruction that Works--that you can start using right away.

Scene from Module 1

Inquiry-based learning has gained favor in recent years because of its emphasis on improving students' ability to learn, not just memorize facts. Given the amount of information and rate of change today's students will face throughout their careers, helping them develop the analytical skills presented in inquiry-based learning is important. What's more, inquiry

skills such as note taking and reflection apply to every subject area, so a little time spent in science class

on these skills helps students with every one of their classes. It also provides a great way for teachers to

work together.

But while teaching inquiry methods is important, finding--and affording--the training necessary to put it into practice has been a stumbling block.

"Finding high quality video exemplars of effective instructional strategies based on the current research was very difficult," said the Director of School Improvement for Montgomery County ESC Betsy Apolito. So INFOhio and the Montgomery County Educational Service Center worked together to develop the instructional strategy modules. The team researched how schools around Ohio are

"It was a challenge to find schools in some cases," said Ann Tepe,  educational consultant, who wrote the scripts and produced the videos. "But the level of commitment from the teachers we worked with was phenomenal. I've delivered a great deal of professional development throughout my career, but I'd have to say I'm most proud of this module series and what it can potentially do for classroom instruction. And the students involved were great!"

Scene from Module 4

Each module consists of a short video that gives you a behind-the-scenes view of the steps other teachers have taken to successfully incorporate inquiry learning in their classrooms. Afterward, you can peruse an extensive list of related templates and web resources you can start using right away.

Module 1, Cues, Questions and Advanced Organizers, focuses on two specific instructional strategies -- activating prior knowledge and developing questions for acquiring deeper content understanding and new knowledge.

Module 2, Summarizing and Note Taking, focuses on several specific instructional strategies -- applying critical thinking, refining keywords, problem solving, questioning deeply and examining content. 

Module 3, Cooperative Learning, focuses on helping students learn to work effectively in groups. Skills such as handling criticism and confronting a group member who is not completing work help students throughout their careers.