Inquiry Based Education of Selected Informatics Topics – Analysis and Results

Abstract

Abstract In the paper we present the partial results of a qualitative research achieved in the project Innovation efficiency methods of teaching mathematics, physics and informatics (VEMIV). The project is aimed at developing inquiry skills of pupils and conceptual comprehension of the subject matter. In the first part we describe basic characteristics of inquiry-based education. In the second part we present two methodologies of teaching informatics. The first methodology is primarily focused on scientific research methods viable in school informatics. In the second one, we focus primarily on the content of school informatics. The methodologies were implemented and commented by teachers from partner grammar schools. At the end of both methodologies we summarize and analyze the results of inquiry-based education according to the presented methodologies. Our findings are supported by the results of pupils’ works, the results of concepTest and evaluation feedback from teachers. In conclusion, we present recommendations for the implementation and evaluation of inquirybased informatics education.