Traditional or Research-Based Approach: Which is More Effective in STEM Education?

Contents:

• What is the difference between traditional and research approaches
• What theorists and practitioners argue about
• What is known about the effectiveness of different types of training
• What other factors influence the effectiveness of types of training
• Principles of effective training
• Specific recommendations for teachers

Educators continue to debate which approach to teaching STEM subjects—science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—is more effective: traditional or inquiry-based. These two methods differ in the level of student activity and independence, which affects the quality of material assimilation. It is important to consider the advantages of each approach to optimize the educational process in the field of STEM.

What is the difference between traditional and inquiry-based approaches?

Traditional teaching, also known as explanatory-illustrative, is focused on transmitting ready-made knowledge to students, who must remember it. Key forms of learning activity in this approach are listening, reading, and reproducing learned material. This teaching method emphasizes the assimilation of information, which allows for the effective transfer of knowledge, but limits the development of critical thinking and student independence. Direct instruction is not limited to passive assimilation of information. This approach also includes solving practical problems and conducting experiments, which serve to consolidate and illustrate knowledge. Practical tasks follow the explanation of the material, allowing students to gain a deeper understanding of the topic and apply the acquired knowledge in practice. Thus, direct instruction combines theory and practice, creating a more effective learning process. Inquiry-based learning involves students actively "extracting" or constructing new knowledge on their own, rather than receiving it "ready-made" from the teacher. The main characteristics of this teaching approach include active student participation in the learning process, the development of critical thinking, and the ability to independently solve problems. Students become not simply consumers of information, but active researchers, which contributes to a deeper understanding of the material and the development of skills necessary for their future professional work. This approach to teaching promotes not only the acquisition of knowledge, but also the development of creativity, initiative, and independence. Inquiry-based learning is becoming especially relevant in a rapidly changing world, where the ability to adapt and find innovative solutions is essential.

• emphasis on students' independent conclusions made through research;
• students sharing research results, experiences, and criticism with each other.

What theorists and practitioners debate

In recent years, views on STEM teaching methods have shifted in the United States and other countries. While the belief previously prevailed that inquiry-based learning was the most effective, scientific publications are now increasingly appearing that claim that direct instruction demonstrates higher effectiveness. These new findings highlight the importance of choosing a teaching approach that best meets the needs of students and the demands of modern education.

In 2022, one of the most relevant scientific papers on educational approaches was published in the journal Educational Psychology Review. The authors include recognized experts in the field of instructional design, such as John Sweller, the creator of cognitive load theory, and Paul Kirschner, co-author of Ten Steps to Integrated Learning. In their paper, they critique the educational policies of countries in which inquiry-based learning is considered the standard in STEM teaching. The authors emphasize the importance of more effective teaching methods that promote deep understanding and practical application of knowledge in these key areas.

The authors of this critical paper note that specific experiments are often used to confirm the effectiveness of inquiry-based learning compared to traditional methods. For example, new teaching approaches are introduced in the classroom for a certain period of time, usually several weeks, and then student performance is analyzed before and after the implementation of these methods. In another version of the experiment, some classes use new teaching methods, while others retain traditional ones, and then compare student achievement.

The problem is that the studies conducted do not take into account or analyze additional factors that can significantly affect the purity of the experiment. As a result, it is impossible to draw definitive conclusions about the effectiveness of different approaches. For a more accurate assessment, it is necessary to consider all possible variables to ensure the reliability and validity of the obtained results.

The authors note that experiments with control groups and the analysis of large data sets show that relying solely on an exploratory approach is insufficient. Without direct instruction, students are unable to achieve the key learning goal—understanding and mastering conceptual scientific knowledge. These findings highlight the importance of an integrated approach to education that combines research-based learning with traditional teaching to achieve a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

In 2023, an article by an international team of researchers was published in the journal Educational Research Review challenging the findings of Kirschner, Sweller, and their colleagues. The authors argued that the evidence presented was incomplete and even flawed. In a review of the scientific literature titled "Let's Talk About the Evidence: The Case for Combining Inquiry-Based and Direct Instruction," the researchers analyzed various aspects of educational approaches, emphasizing the importance of integrating inquiry-based and direct instruction to achieve better learning outcomes. The study highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to education that takes into account a variety of methods and strategies that promote a deeper understanding of the educational material.

• What do the results of various studies actually say about the effectiveness of different types of learning - controlled studies (that is, with an experimental and control group), correlational studies (when relationships among a large data set, such as the results of international PISA tests) and those that the authors of the 2022 article call "program-based" (when new teaching methods are introduced for a period of time and then student results are compared before and after)?
• What factors and environmental conditions influence the effectiveness of a particular type of learning.

The research team presented their findings and recommendations for educators. The study identified key aspects influencing the effectiveness of learning. The authors emphasize the importance of adapting educational methods to the individual needs of students. They recommend using a variety of approaches, including interactive technologies and methodologies that promote active student engagement in the learning process. In addition, the importance of feedback and ongoing assessment of learning progress is emphasized. These recommendations will help educators create a more productive and motivating learning environment for their students.

What is Known About the Effectiveness of Different Types of Instruction

The authors began by reviewing meta-analyses conducted over various years that analyzed the results of controlled studies.

A 2011 study based on 164 different studies found that traditional instruction produces higher results than students engaging in independent inquiry activities without teacher support. However, when a teacher actively guides and facilitates the inquiry process, students achieve significantly better results compared to other instructional methods. This highlights the importance of the teacher's role in the educational process and the need to integrate support into inquiry activities to improve academic performance.

The authors of a 2012 meta-analysis reached similar conclusions, noting that inquiry-based learning is, on average, more effective than traditional methods. The increased benefits for students are particularly noticeable when the inquiry process is accompanied by teacher support. The importance of scaffolding, which is the process of solving problems with teacher assistance, was also confirmed in meta-analyses from 2016 and 2017. Teacher support plays a key role in inquiry-based learning, promoting deeper understanding of the material and developing critical thinking in students.

In 2014, researchers analyzed 59 scientific studies on the effectiveness of interactive simulations compared to traditional lessons. The results showed that teacher-guided virtual experiments produced higher results than independent student work and standard lessons with explanations of the material. This underscores the importance of using technology in the educational process to improve the quality of learning.

The correlational studies were primarily based on PISA 2015 data, which included a question about the frequency of inquiry-based activities in lessons. However, as the authors of the review emphasize, students' responses do not allow for a precise determination of whether they mean inquiry-based experiments that foster knowledge formation or standardized experimental designs. In addition, it is impossible to evaluate the quality of inquiry-based lessons based on the data obtained.

Inquiry-based learning demonstrates greater effectiveness compared to traditional methods. However, an important aspect is the need for teacher support. Students should not undertake research alone, but with guidance and assistance from a teacher, which promotes a deeper understanding of the topic and the development of essential skills. Research shows that frequent research activities can negatively impact academic performance in STEM subjects. For example, a 2021 study confirmed this trend. However, the relationship between research activity and academic performance is not straightforward. Experiential learning can be beneficial if it is applied selectively rather than universally. In particular, a 2016 study based on PISA 2015 data found that students who primarily receive instruction from teachers and periodically engage in independent research demonstrate the highest achievement in STEM subjects. The study's authors suggest that explanations of scientific concepts provide students with the necessary foundation, enabling them to more effectively learn the material during hands-on experiments.

The 2015 PISA results highlight the importance of teacher support in STEM instruction. A 2021 study found that students who receive guidance from teachers during inquiry-based activities demonstrate the best STEM learning outcomes. Conversely, a lack of teacher support reduces the effectiveness of classroom experiments, which negatively impacts the educational process.

The review's authors disagree with criticisms of studies that Kirschner, Sweller, and their co-authors classify as "program-based." They argue that even if the interventions in such studies cannot eliminate many external factors, this also applies to classical instruction. Therefore, a comparison of the two approaches in practice is entirely justified. The results of such studies generally confirm the benefits of inquiry-based learning or reveal no significant differences between experimental and traditional methods.

What other factors influence the effectiveness of learning types?

The authors of the review note that rather than discussing the effectiveness of different learning types in isolation, it is necessary to focus on factors that can enhance or weaken the benefits of each approach. Previous meta-analyses have demonstrated that the effectiveness of inquiry-based learning increases significantly with teacher support. What additional conditions should be considered to enhance learning effectiveness?

In 2022, Swedish researchers identified four key groups of factors that influence the results of using different teaching methods. These factors play an important role in the educational process and can significantly affect the effectiveness of learning. Understanding these groups of factors allows educators and curriculum developers to optimize learning approaches, improving its quality and effectiveness. Research in this area continues to evolve, opening new horizons for improving educational practices and achieving better student outcomes.

• student-related factors — academic performance, cognitive (i.e., intellectual) abilities, prior knowledge;
• teacher-related factors — professional experience, subject-specific knowledge, mastery of a specific teaching method;
• environmental factors — class composition and size, classroom atmosphere;
• content factors — the subject matter studied, the quality of the educational program.

It should be noted that the range of factors influencing individual learning is much broader. In this context, we focus on those aspects that are directly related to the educational process. For example, in our previous material, we examined the factors that determine student performance. The elements listed above only partially reflect the complex influence on learning, which includes both internal and external circumstances.

The authors of the review identified the most Key aspects that can significantly impact the success of both inquiry-based and traditional approaches to learning. These factors are crucial for achieving effective results in the educational process. Not all topics are suitable for learning through experiments. Strict facts, such as chemical formulas and calculation algorithms, are best conveyed to students directly. The authors of the review emphasize that in such cases, traditional teaching methods can be more effective. An inquiry-based approach promotes a deeper understanding and application of learned material in various contexts. This occurs through the ability to analyze information, ask critical questions, and make comparisons. This approach allows not only for the assimilation of knowledge but also for its adaptation to new situations, which significantly increases its practical value. By using the inquiry-based method, students become more independent and proactive, which leads to the sustainable development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

• the topic cannot be fully presented in the form of factual material;
• various interpretations are possible or there are established misconceptions in this area.

According to the authors of the review, the planned learning objectives are even more important than the topic itself. Instructional design theorists, back in the 20th century, emphasized the importance of clearly defining educational objectives. This not only allows for structuring the educational process, but also increases the effectiveness of material acquisition. Correctly formulated learning objectives contribute to a deeper understanding and acquisition of knowledge, which in turn improves students' final results.

• use direct knowledge transfer if the learning goal is to memorize new information;
• and use a research approach if understanding and application of what has been learned is primarily important.

Modern researchers confirm the importance of choosing a teaching approach depending on the goals of knowledge formation in students. In 2017, educators Douglas Fisher, Nancy Frey, and John Hattie, whom we mentioned in our review of their book, "Teaching in Any Context," identified three levels of knowledge: shallow, deep, and transferable. Experimental learning methods are particularly effective for achieving deep understanding and the practical applicability of knowledge. These methods promote deeper learning and the development of skills needed for real-life situations.

The effectiveness of inquiry-based learning depends largely on students' prior knowledge. This aspect is not new, as psychologist Robert Gagné developed a hierarchy of cognitive skills back in the 1980s. It demonstrates what knowledge and abilities must be mastered before moving on to more complex skills, such as problem solving. Understanding this hierarchy can help educators optimize the learning process and ensure deeper learning.

Researchers recommend beginning instruction by providing students with basic knowledge of the topic. This will enable them to effectively formulate hypotheses, conduct experiments, and analyze their results. Building a strong foundation of knowledge promotes critical thinking and a scientific approach to inquiry. Successful application of inquiry-based learning does not require students to have in-depth knowledge of the topic. A 2022 experiment demonstrated that students with only a superficial understanding of the subject benefit more from instructor support during inquiry than those with moderate or advanced knowledge. This underscores the importance of the instructor's role in supporting and guiding students, regardless of their initial level of preparation.A 2014 study found similar results: college students with low academic achievement significantly improved their grades after taking a math course based on instructor-supported methods, compared to those who simply listened to lecture materials. Meanwhile, the grades of students with average and high academic achievement showed no significant differences depending on the approach used. These data highlight the importance of active teacher engagement in the learning of students with low academic performance, which can contribute to a deeper understanding of the material and improve outcomes.

For successful Teaching using the research method requires that students possess the skills to conduct effective research. This is confirmed by the results of work by scientists from Estonia. It is important to understand that you cannot simply assign a class or group of students an assignment and expect them to independently figure out how to conduct an experiment, collect data, and adequately summarize the results. Before assigning such tasks, it is necessary to teach them the basics of research methodology. This will help improve the quality of the research conducted and ensure a deeper understanding of the results obtained.

The effectiveness of different teaching approaches depends not only on knowledge of a specific topic but also on many other factors related to the student. These factors can include motivation, learning style, level of preparation, and personal preferences. Understanding these aspects allows you to adapt teaching methods, making them more effective and suitable for each individual student.

Reading literacy plays a key role in the educational process. High results in reading comprehension are directly related to research skills. If a student cannot grasp the essence of a problem, it will be difficult for them to conduct a mini-research to solve it. This also applies to basic mathematical skills such as comparison, measurement, classification, and calculation. Without these basic skills, students struggle to successfully complete more complex tasks. Developing reading literacy and mathematical skills promotes a deeper understanding of the subject matter and improves overall academic performance. Research conducted among high school and university students has shown that the effectiveness of inquiry-based learning depends on the students' intelligence level and inhibitory control, which is the ability to manage impulses and automatic reactions. This means that inquiry-based learning is most effective for students who are able to control their attention and organize their activities. A high level of self-regulation contributes to more successful acquisition of knowledge and the development of critical thinking, which makes the research approach an important tool in the educational process.

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Cognitive abilities play a key role in successful learning. These include attention, memory, logical thinking, and analytical skills. Developing these skills promotes better retention of material and improves academic performance.

To improve attention, it is useful to practice concentration techniques, such as meditation and mindfulness exercises. These methods help reduce stress and increase the ability to focus on academic tasks.

Memory development can be achieved through mnemonic devices, regular repetition of material, and the creation of associations. Reading books and playing educational games also contribute to improved memorization of information.

Logical thinking and analytical skills can be developed through solving problems and logic puzzles, as well as participating in debates and discussions. These activities help develop critical thinking and argumentation skills.

It is important to remember that developing cognitive abilities takes time and regular practice. Developing a habit of learning and active thinking will significantly increase your chances of academic success.

In 2007, researchers found that self-efficacy, or students' belief in their ability to achieve positive results in research activities, significantly impacts their success. This finding highlights the importance of the psychological aspect in student learning and development, as self-confidence can promote greater engagement in the learning process and improve the quality of their work.

A 2022 study found that direct knowledge transfer is more effective than learning through independent research, especially for students with low self-efficacy. These students, who lack confidence in their abilities, retain information better when they receive it directly from instructors. This approach may be particularly useful in educational settings where it is important to consider students' level of confidence in their knowledge and skills.

Supporting students who experience self-doubt plays a key role in increasing their self-efficacy. Effective inquiry-based learning requires prior preparation and ongoing support. Students should not be left alone to face challenges; this will ensure successful acquisition and application of knowledge. Creating a supportive learning environment promotes deeper learning and the development of self-confidence. Let's consider the results of a 2007 experiment that examined the influence of self-efficacy on students' engagement in inquiry-based tasks. Students with high self-efficacy initially showed greater interest in tasks such as data collection than their less confident peers. However, as the learning progressed, students with low self-efficacy began to actively participate in the lessons, and by the fourth lesson, the differences in their inquiry behavior virtually disappeared. This confirms the authors' belief that the successful experiences gained by students with low self-efficacy contributed to their increased confidence in subsequent lessons. Thus, the importance of developing self-efficacy in schoolchildren becomes obvious, since it directly affects their activity and involvement in the learning process.

Principles of Effective Teaching

Efficiency is achieved through the synergy of traditional and research approaches. This combination allows you to use proven methods while exploring new possibilities. This approach provides a deeper understanding of the problem and opens up new horizons for solving problems. Thus, the integration of these two approaches is the key to the successful implementation of projects and the achievement of goals.

A lesson or educational program can be based on a specific approach, be it research or traditional. However, as the authors of the review note, to achieve effective learning results, it is recommended to integrate additional educational strategies and a variety of activities. This will help create a deeper and more multifaceted educational space that promotes better assimilation of the material and the development of critical thinking in students.

The combination of research and traditional learning activities can be implemented in various ways. Conducting an experiment before the teacher explains the material helps activate students' prior knowledge and engages them in the learning process, emphasizing the importance of the topic being studied. This approach promotes a deeper understanding of the material and generates interest in the subject. As a result, students become more motivated and ready to actively participate in the learning process.

The "productive failure" strategy allows students to actively engage in the learning process by trying to solve problems and challenges using their skills and knowledge. In doing so, they formulate new ideas and learn from their mistakes. The teacher, in turn, guides the explanation to address any difficulties that have arisen and answer students' questions. At the end of the inquiry lesson, it is important to discuss with students what they have learned and their conclusions. Afterward, the scientific concept underlying their discoveries can be presented, which will help reinforce the knowledge gained and deepen their understanding of the topic.

An alternative approach is to use direct instruction before inquiry. For example, this might include explaining theoretical material, allowing students to gain prior knowledge and, subsequently, benefit more from the research process. The teacher can also begin by developing the basic skills necessary for effectively conducting experiments. This approach ensures a deep understanding of the topic and promotes more fruitful study of the subject.

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The optimal teaching approach is a question that concerns many teachers and students. There are two main strategies: presenting the theory first and then offering a practical task, or, conversely, starting with a problem and only then moving on to the theory.

The first method, in which the theory is explained first, allows students to gain the necessary knowledge and understand the main concepts. This creates a solid foundation for solving practical problems. However, it can be a drawback: it can lack motivation among students if they do not see an immediate application of the material being studied.

The second approach, in which the problem is presented first, can pique students' interest and help them better understand the purpose of the theory. This method actively engages them in the learning process and promotes the development of critical thinking. However, it can lead to confusion if students do not have sufficient knowledge to successfully complete the task.

The most effective teaching method may be a combination of both approaches. Using a hybrid method, teachers can start with problems and then delve into theory, or, conversely, use theoretical explanations to support the completion of practical tasks. This approach will promote a deeper understanding of the material and the development of skills in students.

Thus, the choice of teaching method depends on the course goals, the level of students' preparation, and the specifics of the subject being studied.

Direct transfer of information can be effectively combined with inquiry-based learning, in which students receive explanations from the teacher directly while conducting experiments. A 2004 study found that this approach significantly improves learning outcomes compared to a situation in which explanations are not provided. Additionally, a 2010 study confirmed that knowledge transfer both before and during experiments is more effective than providing information only before the investigation. This teaching method promotes a deeper understanding of the subject and increases student engagement in the process.

Combining various teaching strategies and activities requires a certain degree of moderation. A 2013 study by German researchers found that students who received two types of learning support simultaneously—help with interpreting information and self-regulation—performed worse than those who received support in only one direction. This was due to increased mental workload: processing two types of information simultaneously overloaded students' working memory, which negatively impacted knowledge acquisition. Therefore, it is important to balance the use of learning strategies to optimize the learning process and improve student outcomes.

The authors of the review emphasize that the task of selecting and combining learning methods and support that are most effective for students remains complex and requires further research. However, based on existing scientific evidence, it is important to consider the individual characteristics and needs of students. This will enable the development of more tailored and effective educational strategies that promote better learning and skill development.

Virtual educational resources, such as online labs and VR simulations that employ an adaptive approach and provide automated feedback, can be helpful to educators in this context. Researchers note the high potential of using artificial intelligence in this context. Modern AI systems can provide students with personalized recommendations, assist and support them during inquiry-based learning, track student activity in the virtual lab, and generate reports for teachers. The use of such technologies can significantly improve the effectiveness of the educational process and enhance interaction between teachers and students.

If students experience difficulties in the learning process, it is crucial for teachers to provide the necessary support in a timely manner. This will not only help them overcome difficulties but also enhance their understanding of the material, which in turn facilitates successful learning and skill development. Effective support from a teacher plays a key role in creating a comfortable educational environment where students can confidently move towards their goals.

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Evidence-based education in EdTech: the experience of Yandex Yandex Practicum

Evidence-based education in the field of educational technologies (EdTech) is based on scientifically proven methods and technologies that improve the effectiveness of the educational process. Yandex Practicum is a shining example of the successful application of such principles. This platform uses data on learning outcomes, allowing it to tailor courses to student needs and improve their academic performance.

One of the key aspects of Yandex Practicum is the use of data analysis to optimize educational content. The platform collects information on student progress, their strengths and weaknesses, which helps create personalized learning paths. This makes the educational process more effective and promotes better assimilation of material.

Furthermore, Yandex Practicum actively uses feedback methods to improve the quality of courses. Students can leave feedback on the content and format of lessons, and the development team makes the necessary changes based on this data. This creates a dynamic educational environment where every student can gain the most beneficial experience.

In addition, Yandex Practicum offers practical assignments that allow students to apply their acquired knowledge in practice. This approach helps develop essential skills and increases graduates' competitiveness in the labor market.

Thus, Yandex Practicum's experience demonstrates how evidence-based education can transform the EdTech field, ensuring higher quality learning and student satisfaction.

Specific Recommendations for Teachers

Based on an analysis of the scientific literature, the authors of the review developed a number of recommendations for teachers. These recommendations are aimed at improving the educational process and increasing the effectiveness of learning. Teachers should consider modern methods and approaches to adapt their lessons to student needs. It is important to implement innovative technologies and actively use interactive teaching methods. It is also necessary to regularly update your knowledge and skills to maintain a high level of teaching and meet modern educational requirements.

• Consider the educational goal and content of the training. Inquiry-based learning is useful when it is necessary to achieve a deep understanding of the material and develop students' ability to use what they have learned to solve a variety of problems. This primarily concerns complex, ambiguous content. For the transmission of factual, clearly structured information, most likely, there is nothing better than traditional direct knowledge transfer.
• Ensure that students have the necessary knowledge and skills before beginning inquiry-based learning. This applies to both basic subject-specific knowledge and the actual research methods. If students are not yet ready to independently form knowledge based on experiments, it is important to provide them with the necessary foundation using direct instruction methods.
• Adapt the teaching process and support depending on the characteristics of students. Remember that important factors include reading literacy and mathematical skills, general intellectual abilities, inhibitory control, and self-efficacy. The lower students' performance in these areas, the more instructional support they require. This may include the use of traditional teaching methods (direct explanation).
• Combine different teaching approaches. Research shows that the most effective way to combine inquiry-based learning is with direct learning, where students discover some knowledge on their own and receive other knowledge from the teacher.