Developing an Inquiry-Rich Curriculum

The following materials empower departments and programs to evaluate existing opportunities for experiential inquiry and research. These materials should be used as a resource when applying for Inquiry-Based Learning Planning Grants or Development and Enhancement Grants to summarize strengths and areas for enhancement of an inquiry pathway within a curriculum.

Student Learning Outcomes
Student Learning Outcomes for Inquiry-Based Learning focus on development of inquiry skills that prepare students for invention, critical thinking, and communication in their professional careers.

Inquiry Scaffold (PDF)
Aligned with student learning outcomes, the Inquiry Scaffold defines five facets of inquiry at different levels as students progress from guided inquiry with substantial guidance from faculty to independent inquiry where students use appropriate methods and skills to produce work that is situated within genres of the discipline.

Curriculum Map Template (XLS)
The curriculum map template catalogs courses that develop inquiry facets within a program of study and identifies alignment between program outcomes and facets of inquiry.

Budget Template (DOC)
The Budget Template identifies the proposed enhancements, and requested support for integration of experiential inquiry and research within specific courses to support a curricular pathway of inquiry.

Rubrics to assess Inquiry-Based Learning (PDF)
Rubrics to assess inquiry-based learning align assessment of program learning outcomes and facets of inquiry. Rubrics emphasize different facets of inquiry in three areas: critical thinking, scholarly work, and communication.