Constructivism and Inquiry-based Learning
Questioning Attitude

Constructivism and inquiry-based learning are two educational theories that use a different model when it comes to how curriculum is taught. Instead of viewing students as empty vessels that need to be filled with the right information, these approaches view students as learners who come to school with a vast array of previous experiences and knowledge. With the appropriate guidance and direction from their teacher, they can apply what they know to different situations and conditions, making discoveries and connections that make learning meaningful.

Constructivism is a way of educating that believes effective learning requires active participation—the “hands-on, minds-on” approach. Students “construct” meaning by interacting with rich, stimulating environments, allowing them to connect what they already know to current, real-life experiences. In inquiry-based learning, students start with a situation or problem; they question what they experience through their senses; they develop hypotheses which might explain what they understand so far; finally, they test those hypotheses, and analyze and communicate their results.

These two educational pillars at Evergreen Christian School encourage students to develop a questioning attitude about the world around them. They become actively involved and, consequently, more motivated to learn. In an Evergreen classroom, there may not be only one right answer; there might be several. Students learn through exploration and critical thinking, not necessarily through drill and rote learning. They understand more fully the process of gaining knowledge—a valuable awareness that will serve them well throughout their entire lives.