Inquiry-based learning in a mathematics classroom : a comparative action research project

Abstract

This qualitative case study explored the endeavours of a teacher of mathematics in implementing change from a traditional approach to an inquiry approach to teaching and learning of mathematics in a Year 7 classroom attended by nineteen female students. The teacher’s new pedagogical approach, which draws upon a social constructivist theoretical lens, entailed that students collaborate together on tasks that engaged them in inquiry and consequently in active learning. Both the teacher and his students had to assume new roles, which are different from those within a traditional lesson environment. This study essentially compared the perceptions of the teacher and of his students in reaction to the introduction of an inquiry-based learning (IBL) approach to the teaching and learning of mathematics, a pedagogy that was new to everyone involved. Adopting an action research methodology, the research data was collected during one scholastic year. The data sources included classroom observations, a teacher’s reflective journal, video and audio recordings of lessons, focus group interviews, students’ work and students’ comments. The data was eventually analysed thematically. The research findings suggest that the introduction of IBL lessons is a complex issue. Although the students generally enjoyed these lessons and reportedly learned from them, there was still some resistance that came primarily from the higher achieving students. Their resistance reflected fears linked to syllabus coverage and to inadequate preparation for examinations. In order to ensure the sustainability of inquiry lessons in his classroom, the teacher came up with ‘hybrid’ lessons that borrowed features of both traditional and inquiry lessons. Consequently, the indications are that unless systemic changes (linked primarily to syllabus content and high stakes examinations) are made, it would be very difficult for IBL to feature prominently in mathematics lessons.