How does inquiry-based learning differ from traditional teaching methods?

Inquiry-based learning is centered around encouraging students to explore concepts and ask questions, which fundamentally shifts the focus from the teacher to the learner. This method fosters curiosity and critical thinking by allowing students to investigate real-world problems and develop their understanding through hands-on experiences and collaborative discussions. Students become active participants in their learning, which helps to deepen comprehension and retention of knowledge.

In contrast to traditional methods, which often rely heavily on rote memorization or standardized testing, inquiry-based learning prioritizes the process of inquiry itself—investigating questions, exploring possibilities, and drawing conclusions based on evidence and reasoning. This active engagement helps cultivate essential skills such as creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration, which are increasingly valuable in today's world.