Inquiry-based learning (IBL) continues to be the trend within many early years’ programs. Research shows that if facilitated appropriately, this style of learning encourages very young children to investigate in collaboration with others using different forms of communication and it enables them to make use of more capable peers and/or problem solve under supervision. This can be done indoors, as well as outdoors. But what exactly is it? What does it look like? What ages of children are ideal for IBL? How can one incorporate the elements in your setting? In order to address these questions, we will explore the philosophical foundations of IBL in early childhood learning and some powerful strategies we can use on a daily basis to increase children’s critical thinking. The workshop is an introduction to IBL in the early years setting.

Objectives
Participants will be able to:

• Understand that Inquiry Based Learning and small steps to adopt to promote children’s critical thinking
• How can one incorporate the elements of Inquiry Based Learning in your setting?
• Open ended questions
• How to scaffolding children’s learning
• How do you assess Inquiry Based Learning?
• Importance of “backward design” in the Inquiry Based Learning process

Outline 
Day 1:

• What is Inquiry Based Learning
• Types of Inquiry Based Learning
• Process of Inquiry Based Learning
• How to support children’s inquiry thinking
• Backward design and the role in Inquiry Based Learning

Day 2:

• Scaffolding children through a project
• Ball Toss – high-quality back-and-forth interactions
• Role of teacher along a continuum that helps students control their learning
• Assessing Inquiry Based Learning
• Adopting an Inquiry Based Learning approach in your setting, where do you start?
• Reflection

Trainer’s Profile
Dr. Ezeh is an educational consultant and instructional coach who strives to help teachers and leaders transform their classrooms with student-centered learning and social-emotional support. She aims to help “community” teachers make education more relationship based and human. Dr. Ezeh served as Professor of Education and Director of the Early Childhood Education program at Aquinas College and Director of Early Childhood Education for 27 years. She holds Master of Education in Early Childhood Education and Doctor of Education in Child & Youth Studies with specialization in Curriculum Development and Systemic Change, and has taught semester long course and workshops on the Reggio Emilia Approach for years. Her passion is teaching, learning, and growing alongside other educational professionals who also believe that education is the key transforming the world. Ezeh devotes her time and attention helping teachers and schools make learning and the teaching process visible; developing and coaching emerging leaders; advocating for women and young girls, and taking a two generation approach to early childhood education to vulnerable communities. Dr. Ezeh published her memoir – Nwaenyi: Child of an Elephant: Lessons Learned from My Father, a Nigerian Chief, About Child Development and Affirmations to make child development principles visible to parents.

Methodology
This workshop will offer varieties of opportunities for experiential and collaborative learning. Participants will have the opportunity and are expected to be active participants in the discussion, both within the small and large group formats; reflecting on their own journey and learning in a supportive environment that allow them to gain practical knowledge that can be applied to teaching practices.

Target Audience
Teachers, early childhood educators, curriculum coordinator, parent educator and administrators of children aged 0 to 8 years.

Fees
1 person: AUD1190.00/person
2 to 4 person: AUD1090.00/person
5 person & more: AUD890.00/person

Venue
Gold Coast, Australia (exact location to be advised)
Information on Entering Australia Requirements

Other Details
Duration: 2 days, 12 hours
Closing Date: 10 Apr 2024

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