This week we had the opportunity to go to Rebecca Bathursts class. Unfortunately due to unforeseen circumstances, I was unable to attend. I really wish I was able to attend as I think seeing an inquiry based elementary classroom would be beneficial as we got to see it and evaluate the pro’s and cons upon visiting PSII a secondary inquiry based school.

I follow Rebecca Bathurst on instagram and have looked at her website and truly value her creative and child centred approach to education. Here is her website link to learn more about her teaching philosophy: http://rebeccabathursthunt.com

One aspect that stood out for me is that there are different types of inquiry.

Rebecca included this in her slide and it is also found on on VIU’s website https://ciel.viu.ca/scholarly-teaching-practice/viu-council-learning-and-teaching-excellence/2016-2017-council-action-groups/types-inquiry#

This is powerful and interesting to me as it allows students of all ages to be immersed in a style of inquiry that works best for them. As such, this idea of scaffolding helps support various student needs and the diversity of student learners.

When first thinking of inquiry, I always thought of Free Inquiry and how that may be difficult for younger students, but I quickly learned through Rebecca’s presentation that there are multiple ways to include inquiry even for Kindergarten. As such, I look forward to trying these out and modifying an inquiry mindset based on my future classrooms.  Through the various projects I have seen on Rebecca’s instagram I truly value her thought and creativity as well as the hands on learning and cross curricular approach she brings forward. The dinosaur unit for example, supports a structured inquiry and I am excited to follow and see the progress and projects that continue throughout the unit.