20. Computer Supported Inquiry Learning

COORDINATORS

Ton de Jong University of Twente, the Netherlands a.j.m.deJong@edte.utwente.nl	Zacharias Zacharia University of Cyprus zach@ucy.ac.cy

 Mission Statement:

“Computer Supported Inquiry Learning” SIG

The Computer Supported Inquiry Learning SIG focuses on how information and communication technology can be used to design learning environments for effective inquiry learning. Inquiry learning is defined as  “… an approach to learning that involves a process of exploration, that leads to asking questions and making discoveries in the search for new understandings”. (Foundations, Vol, 2, NSF, 2000). The design of effective inquiry learning environments involves the inquiry aspect (e.g., a computer simulation, or a modeling environment) and the necessary cognitive scaffolds. To achieve an adequate design, a deep understanding of the learning processes that comprise inquiry learning and the difficulties learners may experience is necessary. The interests of the SIG include, but are not limited, to the following topics: collaborative inquiry learning, learning by modeling, scaffolding inquiry learning processes, assessment techniques for inquiry learning processes and their outcomes, and implementation of computer supported inquiry learning in the curriculum and the everyday classroom.

The EARLI SIG originates from a SIG with the same name that is sponsored in the context of Kaleidoscope, an EU Network of Excellence on Technology Enhanced Learning. The current website of the SIG is http://kaleidoscope.gw.utwente.nl/SIG-IL/. The next activity of the SIG will be an international workshop on the implementation of inquiry learning in the classroom. This workshop will be open to researchers, practioners, and policy makers. It will feature a number of international guest speakers. The venue is the campus of the University of Twente (NL) and the dates are May 29-31, 2006. More detailed information will be posted on the website.

For more information on the SIG please contact the coordinators: Ton de Jong (University of Twente, email: a.j.m.dejong@utwente.nl) and Zacharias Zacharia (University of Cyprus, email: zach@ucy.ac.cy).

ACTIVITIES

The computer supported inquiry learning SIG organises a workshop at the 2008 International Conference for the Learning Sciences in Utrecht
entitled: Real-time methods for monitoring, evaluating and scaffolding students' reflective inquiry in computer-supported collaborative learning environments.
The workshop is scheduled: Monday 23rd of June.

Further details available here.