A Unique Teaching Method: Guided Inquiry
In many
science classes an instructor tells you how some process works. For
example, she may tell you why some objects float and others sink. Based
on the instructor's explanation you then try to understand (or memorize) this process.
You might read other explanations of this process in your textbook or some other
resource. It is very possible that at no point have you worked through
different experiments with your own hands to see what factors may explain sinking and
floating. You look to the instructor to TELL YOU HOW A PROCESS WORKS.
WARNING: THIS COURSE WILL NOT WORK THIS WAY!!!!
This is NOT A TEACHING BY TELLING LECTURE COURSE! In fact,
there will be very little (if any) lecturing in this course. This class is a GUIDED
INQUIRY. YOU will DO science. YOU will come up with
explanations to help explain various phenomena. As such, YOU will be
responsible for learning and understanding the material. Our
textbook, Physics by Inquiry, will be our guide. This excellent set of
exercises is based on 25 years of research in physics education at the
University of Washington.
Physics 03 models an inquiry-based learning method appropriate for classes
with small enrollment and includes content appropriate to the elementary school
curriculum. In this course, the student will be guided by the Socratic method.
Socrates was a fifth century BCE philosopher and teacher who is credited with
the method of guiding students by asking questions. If the student
expects "teaching by telling" in this course, there will possibly be
some frustration until the student becomes accustomed to the Socratic method.
This method is particularly suited to the development of science and scientific
thinking.
Course Description
From the Sweet Briar College Catalogue:
Emphasis will be placed on hands-on, inquiry-based explorations of physics.
Students will study topics, including mechanics and electricity and magnetism,
using appropriate tools and equipment in order to understand fundamental
concepts. Students will also gain experience in independent investigation and
the development and implementation of their own hands-on exercises and
experiments.
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last updated 8/12/02