Unlock Your Potential: Inquiry-Based Learning in Home Economics for Academic Success

The primary goal of education in Nigeria is to equip citizens with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary for societal contributions and personal fulfillment. Inquiry-based learning in Home Economics directly supports this goal by fostering critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. It moves beyond rote memorization, encouraging a deeper understanding and application of knowledge, thus enabling students to become more capable and engaged individuals within their communities. This approach aligns with the national education objectives by promoting active learning and the development of essential life skills, enhancing students' ability to contribute meaningfully to society.

Inquiry-based learning distinguishes itself from traditional methods by being a student-centered approach that emphasizes real-world questions and hands-on activities. Unlike traditional methods that often rely on rote memorization, inquiry-based learning encourages students to actively engage with the material, fostering a deeper understanding and greater application of knowledge. The key benefits include deepening understanding, enhancing problem-solving abilities, increasing engagement, and promoting critical thinking. These benefits collectively contribute to more effective learning and better preparation for real-world challenges, making Home Economics education more relevant and impactful.

Inquiry-based learning cultivates a range of essential skills, including critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. It encourages students to integrate new knowledge with their existing understanding, allowing them to develop explanations and solve problems through practical approaches. In Home Economics, these skills translate into the ability to analyze recipes, design meal plans, evaluate nutritional information, and adapt to different culinary scenarios. Students learn to make informed decisions, apply their knowledge in practical settings, and creatively address challenges, making them more competent and adaptable individuals in the subject.

Inquiry-based learning originated from the discovery learning movement of the 1960s. This movement emphasized a shift from passive learning to active exploration and understanding. Its evolution has seen the adaptation of this approach to various subjects, including Home Economics. This shift encourages educators to move away from traditional methods and incorporate student interests, promote deeper understanding, and engage students actively. The focus has evolved towards practical application, problem-solving, and connecting learning to real-world contexts, making it a more effective and engaging method for enhancing student achievement.

Educators can integrate inquiry-based learning into secondary school Home Economics curricula by designing lessons that focus on real-world questions and hands-on activities. This involves shifting the focus from teacher-centered instruction to student-led exploration, allowing students to make choices, contribute to their learning experiences, and solve practical problems. For successful implementation, teachers need access to adequate training to understand and facilitate inquiry-based methods. Essential resources include updated curriculum materials, access to necessary equipment and ingredients for practical activities, and professional development opportunities. These resources empower educators to create a dynamic and engaging learning environment, fostering deeper understanding and skill acquisition among students.