The Inquiry Process

There are four elements in the following diagram that are central to the concept of inquiry: I, R, E and C. We will discuss the process with the groups but at this point you might pay particular attention to the arrows. We will introduce you to a problem area to provide the context in which to begin the process.

Definitions of Skills

We have defined the skills you require to include the following:

PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION

• The ability to ask good questions

PROBLEM SOLVING

• The ability to determine what needs to be learned in order to answer those questions
• The ability to identify appropriate resources for learning
• The ability to use resources effectively

PEER PERSUASION

• The ability to report on and discuss what was learned

Essential Skills

We can translate the skills to encompass many things. In this course we will work with a short list that includes essential skills. None of the skills listed below will be perfected this term, or next term or in the next four years. This is the starting line. There is no finish line.

1. Time management - setting priorities, managing time and staying on track
2. Posing a good question and refining it
3. Identifying sources of information - library, online indices, World Wide Web and interviewing experts
4. Evaluating (critical thinking) and integrating information
5. Using information to answer a question
6. Communication skills - verbal, nonverbal and written
7. Working with another person and a group
   • Identifying individual and group strengths and weaknesses
   • Dividing responsibility
   • Following through
   • Teaching each other and learning from each other
   • Giving and receiving constructive feedback
   • Dealing with minor conflict
8. Evaluating your strengths and weaknesses in each area - formally, informally and often