Studies show that active learning, reflection, and learner-centered teaching models boost student achievement, confidence, and self-agency. Inquiry-based learning integrates these approaches. Research done with learners in all age groups show that IBL provides clear improvement for motivation, short- and long-term knowledge recall, and higher order thinking skills. IBL cultivates independent learners and real-world skills such as time management and goal setting.
One study (Khasawneh et al., 2023) of a college algebra course showed a 32% retention rate for the traditional (lecture-based) learning section compared to 92% for the inquiry-based learning section. Another study (Summerlee & Murray, 2010) revealed that first-year university students taught via IBL were better able to access and use refereed articles and specialized websites and databases, while relying less on instructors and Wikipedia.
By involving students in the process, and connecting their learning to topics relevant to them, this increases engagement and buy-in. Inquiry-based learning is also an apt model for addressing wicked problems, which are complex and difficult to find solutions for, such as the climate crisis, education, and poverty; this is due to the more open-ended nature of IBL projects and its ability to draw connections between the personal and the global.
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Learning Benefits of Inquiry-based Learning
Inquiry-based learning is a responsive, agile, nuanced, and responsive pedagogy that empowers students to take ownership over their learning.
Trevor MacKenzie
10 Benefits connected to higher education
Inquiry-based learning also addresses specific issues found in higher education.
Identify gaps in student understanding. Being process-based enables regular feedback from the instructor and reflection by the student, which can help pinpoint misconceptions.
Lack of student motivation. Since students are more involved in the process, those taught via IBL show greater motivation, engagement, retention, and achievement compared to traditional (or transmission-based) approaches to teaching.
Surface learning. Metacognition and active learning help facilitate a deeper engagement and understanding of concepts and ideas.
Diverse student needs. Universal design for learning fits well with IBL, allowing more learner autonomy and ways for students to express their learning.
Community building. The collaborative nature of IBL, group work and discussion, and sharing of knowledge helps strengthen relationships within and beyond the classroom.
ChatGPT. The design of IBL deters plagiarism and the inappropriate use of AI tools. Learning that is relevant, co-created, and reflected upon is less likely to involve plagiarism.
Disciplinary silos. IBL can provide interdisciplinary bridges and cultivate critical thinking that links theory with practice.
Mental health. Many learners struggle with mental health. IBL helps facilitate a meaning-making process, and can build learner confidence and self-esteem.
Employability. IBL cultivates numerous skills considered important to project management, communication, creativity, problem-solving and teamwork.
Wicked problems. Complex and multifaceted problems such as sustainability issues, public health, and global inequity can be difficult to authentically address. The collaborative and reflexive approach of IBL are better able to tackle—and make germane—various wicked problems.
