Scientific Inquiry (204 Words)

Within research or science in education it is customary to follow a recipe format.  However, Barrow (2010) this approach can create barriers to learning science and to break down these barriers a creative approach to science must be implemented.  A scientific inquiry-based process is argued to be a more successful and engaging pedagogy in the teaching of science in school.  Nonetheless, within schools today, the more scientific method approach is more widely used.  According to Doing Science: The Process of Scientific Inquiry, a web tool of conceptual frameworks are organised to allow the learner to progress from what they already know to investigate further with a 5E instructional model with a Process of Scientific Inquiry: 

1. Engage the learner.
2. Explore with investigation.
3. Explain with linking ideas and experiences.
4. Elaborate, problem solve and introduce scientific language.
5. Evaluate what the learner has discovered.

Welsh Government has recently adopted a more creative approach to the teaching of science in Wales with the National Science Academy where a hub of external partners such as: Techniquest, National Botanical Garden of Wales, The Centre for Alternative Technology and WIMCS to support and promote STEM subjects for pupils in Welsh schools.