Implementing an inquiry-based approach to learning in the middle years Arts classroom

The International Baccalaureate's Middle Years Programme (MYP) focuses on inquiry-based teaching and learning, through which teachers support students to construct their own understandings as often as possible in the classroom. Inquiry involves speculating, exploring, questioning and connecting; it has been suggested that this approach develops curiosity and promotes critical and creative thinking. This paper considers how an inquiry-based approach can provide the framework for planning, teaching, learning and assessment in the Arts. Students use research skills to investigate art movements/genres and artworks/performances. They develop ideas and an artistic intention through practical exploration. This provides the opportunity for experimentation in the art form and requires students to acquire and develop discipline-specific skills/techniques. Creating/performing an artwork provides an opportunity for active participation in the art form, and students are required to evaluate their own creation/performance as well as to reflect on their own development as an artist. This framework seeks to promote learner agency and engagement in the Arts through an inquiry-based approach.