Scenario 3A – Structure activities using the Practical Inquiry Model

Designing activities around the Practical Inquiry Model provides a structured pathway for learners to engage in deep and sustained learning. Each of the four phases – Triggering Event, Exploration, Integration, and Resolution – plays a distinct role and should be intentionally incorporated into the course. 

1. Triggering Event – Presenting a problem or question to initiate discussion
   The learning process begins by exposing students to a thought–provoking problem, case study, or open–ended question. This “trigger” creates curiosity and prompts learners to engage with the topic. In online/blended courses, teachers can set up a discussion forum with guiding prompts or provide a contextualized case study on a Page. Effective triggers should be authentic, relevant to learners’ professional practice, and capable of stimulating debate.
   Recommended tools: Forum – Page.  
   
   
2. Exploration – Encouraging multiple perspectives
   Once curiosity is triggered, students need opportunities to explore the issue in depth. This phase involves searching for information, reading resources, and comparing perspectives in group discussions. Teachers can provide articles, guidelines, or multimedia resources, and invite learners to contribute by building a shared Glossary or uploading references into a Database. Exploration allows learners to broaden their understanding and appreciate the diversity of viewpoints before moving towards synthesis.
   Recommended tools: Glossary – Database.
   
   
3. Integration – Synthesizing ideas and connecting to concepts
   In this phase, students are guided to synthesize the insights gained during exploration and relate them to theoretical frameworks or prior knowledge. Teachers might ask learners to produce a reflective essay, a concept map, or a structured assignment that connects practice with theory. The Assignment activity or Lesson module can support this process by scaffolding students’ progression through guided tasks. Integration is a crucial step because it consolidates fragmented insights into coherent knowledge.
   Recommended tools: Assignment – Lesson
   
   
4. Resolution – Applying knowledge in practical contexts
   The final phase of the model focuses on application: students test and demonstrate their understanding by solving real–world problems or completing authentic tasks. Teachers can design workshops, quizzes, or practice–based projects where learners apply knowledge in simulated or pilot contexts. This step transforms theoretical understanding into professional competence and promotes long–term retention.
   Recommended tools: Quiz – Workshop.