Inquiry is what scientists do . They usually do it in a formal and systematic way, and in the process, contribute to the collective body of information we call knowledge. In experiencing science as inquiry, students learn how to be scientists. Thus, students learn more than just a body of concepts and facts, they learn the processes involved in establishing those concepts and facts. Inquiry provides students with concrete, active learning experiences.
Students take the initiative.
Inquiry allows students at different developmental stages to work on similar problems and even collaborate in finding solutions to those problems. Each student gets to bring his or her own special talents into play. Inquiry allows for the integration of multiple disciplines. As students explore, they will tend to ask questions that will involve both science and math, social studies and language arts, technical and artistic skills. Inquiry involves communication.