Eco-Inquiry

Eco-Inquiry is an investigation-based science curriculum that 1) builds students' conceptual knowledge of three fundamental ecosystem processes; 2) develops students' scientific inquiry skills; 3) fosters students' scientific habits of minds, including curiosity, perseverance, open-mindedness, respect for evidence, and reflection; and 4) broadens students' awareness of the nature of science, including scientists as people and science as a community activity.

Three modules (food webs, decomposition, and nutrient cycling) last from 4-7 weeks and can stand alone or be used in sequence at one or several grade levels. Teachers are trained to teach one or more Eco-Inquiry modules. Special features include:

		students work in research teams doing peer reviews and sharing ideas and findings.
		each module organizes students' inquiries around a motivating, real-world problem or challenge.
		each module contains activities that relate a contemporary ecosystem scientist's work and the students' investigations.
		concepts and activities are relevant to the ecology of the local school yard or neighborhood environment.
		extensive assessment materials are used by staff and students.
		students use writing to learn and to reflect. Units are crafted to address student misconceptions about ecology using constructivist pedagogy.
		a detailed "Who Eats What" guide provides teachers with background information on several hundred common organisms found in school yards.

The Eco-Inquiry manual is being used by over 3,000 educators in schools and nature centers across the country, including urban, suburban, and rural settings.

Professional Development

A 1.5 day in-service workshop is provided for each module.

Cost & Funding Options

Staff are responsible for assembling their own kits of materials for classroom implementation using the lists of sources provided in the curriculum guide. The initial cost for a kit of materials for one classroom for one module is between $60-$100 (depending on availability of science equipment), with costs for yearly consumable materials being about $20. The cost of the teacher's guide is $36.95.

The cost of the 1.5 day workshop (up to 30 teachers) is $500, plus staff travel expenses. Follow-up assistance during implementation is optional and may require an additional fee based on level of support requested.

Mathematics, Science and Technology: 1) use mathematical analysis, scientific inquiry, and engineering design, as appropriate, to pose questions, seek answers, and develop solutions; 4) understand and apply scientific concepts, principles, and theories pertaining to the physical setting and living environment and recognize the historical development of ideas in science.