Blended Learning Training for Inquiry-Based Learning in Science and Technology Education

Abstract

This article presents a blended learning training for teachers to foster inquiry-based learning in elementary schools, which was developed within the program Experimento of the Siemens Stiftung. The objectives are knowledge acquisition on inquiry-based learning and its operationalization with a research cycle for experimenting as well as knowledge transfer to actual teaching practice. To achieve these objectives, didactical approaches like blended learning and problem-based learning were applied as well as media-didactical design elements. The digital phases in the blended learning approach make it possible for teachers to learn flexibly at their own pace to acquire knowledge for experimenting and prepare experiments for their lessons. Problem-based learning includes authentic classroom video sequences which offer numerous didactical connecting factors for preparing a teaching outline. Media didactical design elements enable focused and meaning-ful content processing. After registration, the digital teaching-learning environment is freely accessible to all those interested in education.