National Evaluation Series (NES) Assessment of Professional Knowledge Practice Test

What is a defining characteristic of inquiry-based learning activities?

1. It is a form of direct teaching.

2. The more knowledgeable other must model the learning activity.

3. It is typically more orderly than other teaching methods.

4. It is a form of constructivism.

The correct answer is: It is a form of constructivism.

Inquiry-based learning activities are fundamentally rooted in constructivism, which is a theory of learning that posits individuals construct their own understanding and knowledge of the world through experiences and reflecting on those experiences. In inquiry-based learning, students are encouraged to ask questions, conduct investigations, and formulate their own conclusions, thus actively engaging in the learning process. This approach allows them to connect new knowledge with prior understandings, leading to deeper conceptual learning. The focus is on the learners' ability to explore and discover, rather than just passively receiving information from a teacher or textbook. While direct teaching and modeling by a more knowledgeable other can certainly play a role in education, these methods are not defining characteristics of inquiry-based learning. In fact, inquiry-based learning often emphasizes student-driven exploration rather than structured, teacher-led instruction. The notion that it is more orderly than other methods also does not capture the essence of inquiry-based learning, which can often be dynamic and unpredictable as students navigate their learning paths. Thus, associating inquiry-based learning with constructivism accurately highlights its primary characteristic: the learner's active role in constructing their own knowledge through inquiry and exploration.