Every teacher in a traditional classroom brings their own unique style to teaching. From your school days, you likely remember that each teacher had a different approach. While every teacher operates autonomously, the school's overall learning style can create opportunities or present obstacles, depending on the expectations set by that style. More importantly, it's the method of assessment that truly shapes the learning environment.
A traditional classroom follows an industrial model. The teacher is seen as the primary source of knowledge. Students receive information through lectures, demonstrations, and structured lessons, with a strong emphasis on memorization, following a set curriculum, and preparing for standardized tests. The teacher controls the pace of learning, and students are expected to absorb and recall the information presented to them.
In contrast, an inquiry-based classroom promotes a student-centered approach, fostering a teaching style that is more facilitative and exploratory. The teacher, acting as a guide, encourages students to ask questions, explore topics of interest, and engage in hands-on, collaborative activities. Here, the focus shifts to critical thinking, problem-solving, and deep understanding. The curriculum is flexible, enabling learners to follow their curiosity and make connections across different subjects.
The approach to assessment is what fundamentally differentiates these teaching styles. In a traditional classroom, assessment typically involves quizzes, tests, and exams, focusing on recalling facts and performing procedural tasks. (For a deeper look at the difference between simply recalling facts and truly understanding concepts, see our post on math education.)
To succeed in this style of assessment—and we all strive for success—teachers have limited flexibility to deviate from the industrial classroom model.
In an inquiry-based classroom, however, assessment takes on a different form. Teachers assess students through formative assessments, observations, and reflections, allowing for a focus on the learning process rather than just the end result.
While assessment may be seen as the final step in the learning process, it influences everything that comes before it, including teaching style.
Social Icons