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E-Bridge Pre-School
E-Bridge Pre-School, part of the trusted EtonHouse Group, is an Anchor Operator and has been in operation since 2014. We provide high-quality childcare with a trusted programme for children aged 2 months to 6 years across 24 centres.
Play-based learning is a well-recognised and cherished approach in early childhood education, celebrated for its ability to nurture creativity, social skills, and cognitive development in young learners. However, an equally impactful educational pedagogy — inquiry-based learning — deserves the same recognition and acclaim.
We have already debunked the myths about inquiry-based learning previously, so it is now time to shine the spotlight on what it is all about, as well as its benefits.
Keep reading to explore why it is worth enrolling your child in a preschool in Singapore that adopts inquiry-based learning.
So, What Is Inquiry-Based Learning?
It is an educational approach that motivates children to explore, investigate, and discover knowledge through questioning, experimenting, and problem-solving. Unlike traditional rote memorisation methods, inquiry-based learning fosters critical thinking, creativity, and a deep understanding of concepts.
Types of Inquiry-Based Learning
1. Confirmation InquiryIn this approach, children are provided with a predetermined question, solution, and the method to reach that solution. The emphasis lies not on the answer itself, but on understanding the methodological process. children learn to ask meaningful questions and develop an appreciation for the investigative process.
Example: The educator sets up an activity where the children are tasked with determining which objects sink or float in water. The educator provides the question ("Do these objects sink or float?"), the solution (demonstrating the outcome for each object), and the method (observing whether the object remains on the surface or sinks).
2. Structured Inquiry
Similar to confirmation inquiry, structured inquiry provides children with an open-ended question and the method for investigation, but not the solution. children are tasked with utilising the provided method to arrive at an evidence-backed conclusion. They learn to hone their ability to formulate meaningful questions, analyse data, and draw conclusions based on evidence.
Example: During a science lesson, the children are asked to explore the concept of colours. The preschool educator poses the question ("What happens when we mix red and blue paint?"), provides the method (mixing the colours together using paintbrushes), but does not reveal the solution. Children engage in hands-on experimentation, observing how the colours blend and form new hues.
3. Guided Inquiry
This approach offers children an open question, but unlike confirmation and structured inquiry, they are encouraged to investigate methods to reach a solution. It is ideal for group work, with educators playing a supportive role by guiding children back to the central question and providing resources as needed.
Example: In a group activity focused on gardening, the children are tasked with investigating the factors that influence plant growth. The educator presents the question ("What do plants need to grow?"), guides children in brainstorming possible methods for investigation (water, sunlight, soil), and encourages them to design experiments to test their hypotheses. The children work together to set up plant experiments, record observations, and analyse the results.
4. Open Inquiry
The children take full control of the learning process in open inquiry. They pose their own questions, devise methods for investigation, and defend their solutions. However, this does not mean educators are entirely hands-off — they provide time, support, and resources as the children explore their inquiries independently.
Example: The children are invited to investigate what plants need to grow. After an introduction to the topic, the children engage in a discussion about the essential elements for plant growth, such as water, sunlight, and soil. Each child selects a plant, hypothesising about its needs and planting it in a pot with soil. Over several weeks, they care for their plants and record daily observations in journals. At the end of the experiment, the children share their findings with the class, discussing what they learned about plant needs.
Benefits of Inquiry-Based Learning
The benefits of inquiry-based learning often extend far beyond the preschool classroom walls.
1. Critical Thinking Skills
Learning to analyse information, evaluate evidence, and develop informed opinions contributes to the development of critical thinking skills that are essential for success in school and beyond.
2. Curiosity and Creativity
Children learn to think outside the box, explore new ideas, and express themselves creatively.
3. Problem-Solving Abilities
It also equips children with the ability to identify problems, brainstorm solutions, and adapt to changing circumstances with resilience and resourcefulness.
4. Depth of Understanding
Rather than simply memorising facts, inquiry-based learning promotes a deep understanding of concepts by exploring topics and making connections between different concepts.
5. Lifelong Learning Mindset
Instilling a love for learning and a motivation to explore the world around them creates a lifelong learning mindset. As a result, children develop the skills and attitudes needed to thrive in an ever-evolving society, where continuous learning is essential for success.
We believe that every child is a curious explorer. That is why our educators at E-Bridge Pre-School empower children to become active participants in their own learning journey through inquiry-based learning, laying the foundation for a lifetime of success.
Join us in nurturing your child's potential and passion for learning — find a preschool near you here.