Also known as Problem-based learning or Project-based learning or PBL, Inquiry-Based Learning is an approach that has proven to increase students鈥� abilities to problem-solve using a student-centered delivery of instruction. While nothing can replace the time needed for systematic math and language skill acquisition, learning opportunities to apply these skills are critical for developing problem solving skills. In IBL, a 鈥減roblem鈥� or question is presented and students must use their prior knowledge and skills to build direct and meaningful correlations to solve the problem. Math, English, Social Studies, Science, Information and Communication Technology, Fine Arts are explored in combination or simultaneously in real life contexts. Through questions and questioning, teachers and students match project objectives with the Alberta Education鈥檚 Specific Learner Expectations.

Projects bring a whole new enthusiasm to the classroom. The scope and breadth of projects can vary from days to weeks to months. Because students are engaged in projects that are 鈥渞eal鈥� to them 鈥� about the real world, their world 鈥� their level of concentration and application increase, as do their learning results.

Students learn best听when they are actively engaged in activities that are important and meaningful to听them. Accomplishing a task independently constitutes learning. Brain research indicates that emotion is the gatekeeper to learning, intellectual functioning is greatly impacted by experience, and personal meaning is the key to memory.听(Alberta Initiative for Student Improvement, 2004, p11)

Authentic Assessment, or Performance Assessment, refers to evaluating students throughout the whole learning process and not just at the end of a unit or semester. Students and teachers benefit from these frequent assessment opportunities because strengths and weaknesses are identified prior to the 鈥渇inal exam.鈥� Teachers use standards-based assessment rubrics to evaluate the students learning process at the initial planning stage, the application stage, and the final end-product stage.

As they say in PBL, 鈥淭he Question is the Answer鈥� because questions and questioning are the forerunners of understanding. Engaging students in the learning process has astonishing consequences: attendance and academic achievement increase, and students鈥� overall positive interest in school and learning skyrocket.