IASL Research Abstracts

IASL Research Abstracts: 91

Findings: : Developing an essential inquiry question takes time, instruction, mediation and support. Choosing a personal choice inquiry topic requires assistance from peers and teacher-librarians and the time to explore background information.

Abstract: This study examines the inquiry process of a group of Grade 9 students 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. Students needs ample time to explore information before they were able to web their ideas and develop an essential question to later 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. See:

Branch, Jennifer. (2003) Inquiry takes time: Breaking down barriers to an understanding of the inquiry process of Grade 9 students. In S. Zinn, G. Hart and E. Howe (Eds.) School libraries: Breaking down barriers (pp. 35-42). Seattle: International Association of School Librarianship.

Subject Categories: 12