Scientific Inquiry - Definition & Meaning

Scientific inquiry refers to the systematic and rigorous process through which scientists investigate the natural world, propose explanations for phenomena, and test their hypotheses. It involves a combination of observation, experimentation, data analysis, and critical thinking to generate new knowledge and understanding.

Scientific inquiry follows a structured approach that typically includes formulating a research question, conducting background research, designing and conducting experiments or investigations, collecting and analyzing data, drawing conclusions, and communicating the findings. It encourages curiosity, creativity, and evidence-based reasoning in exploring the complexities of the world around us.

Through scientific inquiry, researchers seek to uncover patterns, relationships, and cause-and-effect relationships in the natural world. It is characterized by an open-minded and objective approach, where conclusions are based on empirical evidence and subject to scrutiny and replication by other scientists.

Scientific inquiry is not limited to scientists alone; it is also an essential component of science education. By engaging in scientific inquiry, students develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and a deeper understanding of scientific concepts and processes. It encourages students to ask questions, make predictions, and explore the world through a scientific lens.

Other Terms Starting With S

Secondary School

Secondary school, also known as high school, refers to the educational institution that provides education to students in the stage between primary school and higher education. It typically covers grades 9 to 12, although the organization and grade levels can vary across different educational systems.

Scaffolding

In education, scaffolding refers to a supportive framework or instructional approach that provides temporary assistance and guidance to students as they learn new concepts, skills, or tasks. The goal of scaffolding is to facilitate learning by breaking down complex or challenging tasks into manageable steps, gradually reducing support as students gain proficiency and independence.

Summative Assessment

Summative assessment is an evaluation method used to measure student learning and achievement at the end of a learning period, course, or instructional unit. It aims to assess the cumulative knowledge, skills, and understanding that students have acquired over a specific period.

Standardized Testing

Standardized testing refers to assessments that are administered under uniform and controlled conditions, following specific procedures and guidelines to ensure consistency and comparability of results across test takers. These tests are typically designed to measure a student's knowledge, skills, or aptitude in a specific subject area or set of competencies.

Scope and Sequence

Scope and sequence refers to the organization and sequencing of content and skills in an educational curriculum. It outlines the specific topics, concepts, and skills to be taught at each grade level or within a specific course, providing a roadmap for instruction.

Student-Centered Learning

Student-centered learning is an educational approach that places the learner at the center of the instructional process. It focuses on tailoring teaching methods, curriculum, and assessment to the individual needs, interests, and strengths of students.

Scholarship

Scholarship refers to the pursuit of knowledge, understanding, and academic excellence through research, study, and intellectual inquiry. It involves a systematic and disciplined approach to advancing knowledge in a particular field of study or discipline.

Student Engagement

Student engagement refers to the degree of involvement, interest, and active participation exhibited by students in their learning experiences. It encompasses the emotional, behavioral, and cognitive aspects of student involvement and investment in the learning process.

Synthesize Information

Synthesizing information refers to the process of combining and integrating different sources of information to create a cohesive and comprehensive understanding or representation of a topic or concept. It involves analyzing, evaluating, and organizing information from various perspectives and sources to generate new insights, connections, or conclusions.

STEM Education

STEM education stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics education. It is an interdisciplinary approach to learning that integrates these four disciplines to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation in students.

Service Learning

Service learning is an educational approach that combines academic learning with meaningful community service. It involves engaging students in hands-on projects or experiences that address community needs, while also integrating academic content and reflective activities.

SCORM

SCORM, which stands for Sharable Content Object Reference Model, is a set of technical standards used in e-learning and online education. SCORM enables interoperability between different learning management systems (LMS) and e-learning content, ensuring that content created in one system can be used in another without compatibility issues.

Student Achievement

Student achievement refers to the academic progress and accomplishments of students in their educational pursuits. It encompasses the level of knowledge, skills, and understanding that students have acquired as a result of their learning experiences.

Student Affairs

Student affairs, also known as student services or student support services, refers to the comprehensive range of non-academic services and programs provided by educational institutions to support students' personal, social, and emotional well-being.

Scientific Knowledge

Scientific knowledge refers to a systematic and evidence-based understanding of the natural world and the principles that govern its functioning. It is acquired through rigorous scientific research, observation, experimentation, and analysis.

Social Pedagogy

Social pedagogy is an interdisciplinary field of education that combines elements of pedagogy, sociology, psychology, and social work. It emphasizes the holistic development of individuals and communities, with a focus on social interaction, personal growth, and social justice.