Chapter 5

How can I get students to ask questions about the research they are conducting?

I can get my students to ask questions about the research they are doing by using strategies like ThinkSheets. One great idea is a K-W-L chart--What I know, What I want to know, and what I learned.  Although there are several different ThinkSheets, they all have two basic components.  The first is task orientation or instruction and the second is learner capabilities or a strategy the student can confidently complete.

How can I teach my students to solve problems?

I can teach my students to problem solve by using the NTeQ's Problem Solving Process that is aligned with Bloom's Taxonomy (p 135).  It identifies the steps to take, the level of learning, and the product the student produces.

I've never used inquiry-based approach, much less computers--so how is a teacher supposed to do both of these at one time?

Using new teaching approaches can be overwhelming.  As our text notes, change is uncomfortable.  But we need to know that the NTeQ approach benefits student learning.  Work slowly and use programs we can handle.  We should make sure our first attempts are simple and that they will have positive results.  Choosing topics that we feel comfortable with will help us feel more in control.  We should also chose problems that have more than one solution to generate conversation among our students