Introduction:

Inquiry-based learning: Facilitating authentic learning experiences in science and mathematics is the fourth in a series of biennial international Science and Mathematics Education Conferences (SMEC) to be hosted by the Centre for the Advancement of Science and Mathematics Teaching and Learning (CASTeL) of Dublin City University and St. Patrick’s College, Drumcondra, Dublin

Background:

Inquiry-based learning has been chosen as the theme for this year’s conferences as this inductive method for teaching and learning has been shown to engage and stimulate students to continue to learn and pursue careers in areas of science and mathematics. Inductive teaching methods come in many forms, including discovery learning, inquiry-based learning, problem-based learning, project-based learning, case-based learning and just-in-time teaching, as described in full in the following publication (Michael Prince and Felder, 2007)

Conference Themes:

This conference is aimed at all parties involved in the teaching and learning of science and mathematics and will look to address the issues, concerns and experiences of inquiry-based learning, such as:

• Breadth versus depth in science and mathematics curricula
• Attitudes and perceptions of inquiry-based learning
• Implications for teacher education; pre-service & in-service
• Inquiry for teachers - challenges and rewards of implementation
• Inquiry as a means versus inquiry as an outcome
• Assessment of inquiry

Previous SMEC’s:

Previous conferences in this series addressed the issues of Sciences Serving Science, exploring questions such as transfer of knowledge and skills between disciplines, breadth versus depth in science curricula and the implications of these issues in regard to teacher education (SMEC 2008); explored the Interconnections between teaching and learning of mathematics and science at all education levels (SMEC 2006); and addressed the need for improving science, mathematics and technology education through high quality research and deployment in our education system to secure the foundations of Ireland’s knowledge-based economy (SMEC 2004). Links to each of these conferences can be found by return to the home SMEC page.

Reference: MICHAEL PRINCE & FELDER, R. (2007) The Many Faces of Inductive Teaching and Learning. Journal of College Science Teaching, 36.