On 29 February 2024, Barbara Stripling, Jenny Toerien and Darryl Toerien presented Engaging and Empowering Learners for Life through Inquiry / Developing Inquiry-Based Schools & School Libraries (PPT download) at the San Jose State University School of Information Leap into the Future of School Libraries Conference (free eBook of video presentations).

Program Description

When learners develop an inquiry stance, they learn to follow their own sense of wonder into new discoveries and insights about themselves, others, and the way the world works. Through inquiry, learners develop the skills and attitudes of independent learning, a strong self-identity, cultural responsiveness, social and emotional health, voice and agency, and a growth mindset. In this session, we will explore teaching these whole-child skills and attitudes to learners throughout their years of schooling through collaboratively planned, inquiry-based curricular units and direct instruction. By teaching these life skills, school librarians can empower all students to flourish both in school and beyond.