The role of enquiry

The course draws on a range of student centred learning approaches, a number of which are structured around enquiry-based learning (EBL). Whilst there is no commonly agreed definition of EBL in the literature, nor consensus about the nature this approach should take, it can be described by as a broad umbrella term that incorporates a range of learning approaches which are guided by a process of enquiry.

Enquiry-based learning can take the form of many different things depending on the context. For the purpose of the course we have found the definition outlined by Tosey et al. (2008) to have particular relevance. Within this definition it is reported that the ‘broad intent of enquiry-based learning is to enable the learner to develop transferable skills of enquiry, which are most relevant in any context (especially professional and workplace contexts) where the capacity to construct knowledge and to act within conditions of complexity is important’ (p4).

In considering use of the term ‘enquiry’ itself we have also found it helpful to draw on the work of Rowland (2006) who equates it with ‘seeking’ information. You will be used to seeking information in different ways already – from finding out information online to searching a library to locate a reference in a key book. Similarly, you will find that for some of your learning the course will structured so that you are required to seek out information, either independently or in collaboration with others. As we will find out in Unit 4, for some activities, you will be asked to learn to seek information independently, for example when finding out about research or practice in the field of special education.

In practice of course most of our daily roles involve working with others. This is particularly true of a QTVI. Your learning activities will therefore include opportunities to work with others in a variety of contexts – some of these will be working in pairs, others working in assigned online study groups within the virtual learning environment. Engaging in activities that enable you to learn to learn with others in order to seek out information is considered to be an important part of your overall learning experience. We will showcase some of these activities in Unit 4.