Integrated Science/Inquiry Approach Reflection

 o What happened?

Last week the #psuaged22 cohort had the opportunity to attend an NAAE Inquiry Institute. This was an excellent experience if I do say so myself. At this institute we were put into the position of a student as we learned strategies to incorporate inquiry into our classrooms. 

o How does it relate to what I know about teaching and learning?

This experience relates to my knowledge of autonomy in the classroom. I know that a learner is more motivated when they feel as if they have control over their own learning. Adding more inquiry based material in the classroom will help engage students in a way that isn't typical of the common classroom.

o What did I learn from the experience?

I learned that using hands-on inquiry based instruction where the students ask the questions to guide learning is beneficial when pursuing engagement from students that typically wouldn't be engaged. Afterall, learning is something a student must pursue on their own. We "cover content" as much as we want, but if we don't grab the attention of the learner, then we will fail to accomplish the mission of education professionals.

o How can I apply this as an Agriscience teacher?

Ag Education is perfect for inquiry based instruction. Why? Because we eat, sleep, and breathe hands on instruction! I will be sure to be cognizant when creating lessons by asking myself how to get learners asking questions.