Inquiry-based Learning

"We were impressed with HFCA's inquiry-based learning environment which develops learners with confidence, curiosity, and enthusiasm!" AdvancED STEM Certification Team 

Inquiry-based learning is a hallmark of Holy Family Catholic Academy's thinking curriculum and is supported by the findings of current educational research and best practices. HFCA's use of this method in preschool through Grade 8 is consistently aligned with the teaching goals of the International Baccalaureate Organization (IB) and was an impetus to seek authorization as an IB World School.

Inquiry learning is often referred to as authentic learning because students' learning is connected to real-world issues, problems, or applications. As such, planning inquiry-based units that are purposeful and authentic requires considerable effort. Rather than teachers being the sole wealth of information, they become educational coaches using guiding questions that prompt students to make connections through exploration and high-level questioning. 

This graphic, created by Trevor MacKenzie and Sylvia Duckworth lists many of the benefits our students receive from using inquiry-based learning.