Inquiry Takes Time

Breaking Down Barriers to an Understanding of the Inquiry Process of Grade 9 Students

Abstract

This study examined the inquiry process of a group of Grade 9 students (ages 14-15) as they completed an inquiry project on a topic of their own choice and shared their project using a PowerPoint presentation. Data for the study was gathered using informal observations and two verbal protocol methods: Think Afters and Think Togethers. The study found that students needed a lot of time to explore information before they were able to web their ideas and develop an essential question to examine more fully. Choosing a topic focus and developing an inquiry question was a challenge for many students. Most required assistance from peers, teachers, and teacher-librarians as well as the time to explore background information.