Reflection Sheet 3

1. Take some time to think about your topic.

Inquiry Based Learning and Information Literacy. These 2 areas are much more complex than I originally thought. My narrow view of these topics has expanded exponentially and I now realise that I will never fully understand the nature of these beasts as they are constantly evolving and changing with the times.

Now write down what you know about it.

IBL and IL are processes that require students to "construct" and understand knowledge in order to become skilled shapers of their own learning. When these processes engage the learner in reflective practice and ask them to evaluate the learning process then students move into the more comples phase of higher order thinking. Knowledge constructed in this phase is more purposeful and meaningful.

2. How interseted are you in this topic?

A great deal.

3. How much do you know about this topic?

Not nearly as much as there is to learn about this topic!! I know that in th e past i have underestimated the power of IBL in the classroom. It has always been a part of my planning as I teach SOSE and Senior Geography but syllabus requirements have meant that assessment has driven the type of learning in my classroom and my pedagogical practice has reflected this. I have catered for different learning styles and ensured that the Dimensions of Learning and Habits of Mind are addressed but my focus has not always been on IBL and IL.

4. Thinking back on your research, what did you find easy to do?

I found it easy to find general information about inquiry based learning and information literarcy. Models that clearly identified the research process were easy to find. It was also easy to reflect on my emotions during the process. I find that the house is spotless, the washing done, the cupboard is well stocked and the clothes are all folded and put away when I have marking or assignments to work on due to the ease in which I fall into my PROCRASTINATION phase!

5. Thinking back on your research project, what did you generally find difficult to do?

I find it difficult to maintain momentum. I am easily sided-tracked by other interesting bits of information that I find and lose the focus of my original ideas. When I first began the process I was motivated, and like my students, had high expectations for my assignment. After being swamped with too much information I began to doubt that I was on the right track.