Problem Statement

Science education has become even more important today, facing economic, environmental, and social challenges. According to some experts, science education should be a compulsory element in education of all children. Therefore it is important to develop science educational methods which are appropriate for all. We suppose that Inquiry-Based Science Education (IBSE) is a suitable method for science education of different students.

Purpose of Study

We aimed to find arguments why IBSE represents appropriate educational method for all and to present examples of good practice in IBSE teaching/learning. Our research question:

Why is IBSE appropriate educational method for all students?

Methods

We applied the Delphi study method. Participants were students, science teachers, science educators and scientists. We used also questionnaires and design-based research.

Findings and Results

This paper reports the results of Delphi study which indicates the importance of science education of all. We applied IBSE in 50 classes of lower secondary schools in the Czech Republic in years 2012/2013. Pre and post questionnaires verified that IBSE upgrades knowledge, understanding and interest in science of all students. Examples of good practice in teaching/learning are given to illustrate how to develop different students (gifted and non-gifted for science) using IBSE.

Conclusions and Recommendations

Based on our research outcomes, we suppose that IBSE is a suitable method for science education of all students. IBSE enables not only preparing for life but provides a starting point for lifelong science education. The results of our research we implement in science teacher training.