ABCTE Professional Teaching Knowledge Practice Exam

What is a key feature of inquiry learning in the classroom?

1. Rote memorization of facts

2. Structured exploration of concepts

3. Focus on grades and competition

4. Use of external examinations

The correct answer is: Structured exploration of concepts

Inquiry learning emphasizes a structured exploration of concepts as a crucial feature. This approach encourages students to actively engage with the material through questioning, investigation, and hands-on activities. Rather than passively receiving information, students delve deeper into subject matter, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Structured exploration aids in guiding students through the learning process, allowing them to construct knowledge based on their own experiences and discoveries. This method contrasts sharply with rote memorization, which limits understanding by focusing only on recalling facts without context. While competition and external examinations have their place in education, they do not align with the core principles of inquiry learning, which seek to promote collaboration, curiosity, and intrinsic motivation among students.