Implementation Model of an Open Inquiry Curriculum

Despite the growing consensus regarding the value of inquiry based teaching and learning, the implementation of such practices continues to be a challenge. The goal of this paper is to present a model for the educational infrastructure that can support the implementation of the Biomind program, which is a new open inquiry program for Israeli biology high school students. This model of the Biomind program implementation consists of four interactive domains, that is, Development, Operating, Supporting, and Control. Through the developmental domain, workshops were held where teachers developed the program as it was operating. Teachers' reflective discussions and the ongoing action research contributed to the development and improvement of the Biomind program. While introductory workshops served as a basis for the Operation domain, the advanced workshops and forums for veteran teachers, as well as conferences, were significant factors in supporting and controlling the program implementation. This article will describe how each aspect of the model supports the implementation of the Biomind program, emphasizing the assistance provided to teachers both in comprehending the essence of open inquiry and in coping with the difficulties of teaching open inquiry.