The Benefits of Inquiry-Based Science and Math Education as a Constructivist Pedagogy

Abstract

Nowadays there is a growing interest at international level for inquiry-based science and math education (IBSE). From the very beginning we have to state that the accent within IBSE is put on the learning effort of students. The modern didactic approaches avoid the term „teaching - learning”, which supposes first of all the teacher’s effort to ensure the transfer of the knowledge stipulated by the curricula. On the contrary, the pedagogy of IBSE is focused on the development of understanding, formation of skills and attitudes requested for an active life within knowledge-based society. IBSE projects help the teacher correctly guide the formation of so-called „big scientific ideas” which are the base for understanding and explanation of new phenomena, events or things. In this way, IBSE puts the basis for analysing and reasoning abilities, acquaints the students with learning strategies, which will be used by them during their whole life. IBSE is the result of empirical combination of several constructivist theories, such as: multiple intelligences, Bloom taxonomy, whole method, etc.