ABCTE Professional Teaching Knowledge Practice Exam

Which instructional approach allows students to actively engage with materials to discover concepts themselves?

1. Direct Instruction

2. Collaborative Learning

3. Inquiry Learning

4. Lecture-Based Instruction

The correct answer is: Inquiry Learning

The chosen answer highlights Inquiry Learning as the instructional approach where students take an active role in their education. In this method, students are encouraged to explore, ask questions, and conduct their own investigations to uncover and understand concepts. This hands-on engagement promotes critical thinking and fosters a deeper understanding of the subject matter since students are not just passive recipients of information but active participants in their learning journey. In contrast, Direct Instruction typically relies on teacher-led lessons, where the educator presents concepts directly to students, limiting their engagement with materials in a self-directed manner. Collaborative Learning does encourage engagement but focuses primarily on students working together rather than on their individual exploration of concepts. Lecture-Based Instruction is similar to Direct Instruction, as it centers on the teacher delivering information to students without encouraging them to discover concepts on their own. Thus, Inquiry Learning distinctly stands out by prioritizing student-driven discovery and exploration.