The Natural Human Drive to Ask Questions: The Power of Inquiry-Based Learning

Humans are naturally curious creatures. We constantly ask ourselves questions about the world around us, like why is the sky blue? Or why is it so cold today? This innate desire to inquire and learn is an essential part of the human experience. An inquiry-based classroom taps into this natural curiosity and teaches students real-life skills in the process.

At OYIS, inquiry-based learning evolves as students grow, matching their developmental levels. In preschool and kindergarten, teachers create open-ended invitations to play and learn. A student might arrange blocks on the floor that look like a train, sparking imaginative conversations about conductors and passengers. As students advance to Grade 1, inquiries become more structured and connect to specific learning outcomes. Teachers set up “provocations” – materials and scenarios designed to pique curiosity about key concepts.

By Grade 6, students take charge of their own inquiries during the PYP Exhibition, a culminating project where they design their own unit of study. They conduct research, synthesize their learning, and present their inquiry to parents and teachers. What an empowering educational experience! As an adult, I wish I had benefited from inquiry-based learning as a child.

The natural human drive to ask “why” finds a perfect outlet in inquiry-based classrooms. When students are energized by their own curiosity, they gain life-long skills in research, communication, critical thinking, and more. Inquiry-based learning allows students’ innate sense of wonder to flourish.