Voqal strives to support organizations and individuals that are creating a more educated and empowered public. One way we accomplish this goal is through the Education Opportunity Project (EOP). The EOP seeks to measurably reduce educational opportunity gaps by providing capital and strategic advice to entrepreneurs and organizations working to improve educational outcomes for disadvantaged populations. As part of our continued efforts to shine a spotlight on these game-changing organizations, this month we are highlighting, inquirED, and its efforts to provide a high-quality social studies curriculum for elementary students.
InquirED believes the answers to tomorrow’s problems can’t be found in the back of a social studies textbook. It also believes the skills needed in the modern workplace aren’t practiced on a worksheet. To that end, inquirED integrates curriculum and professional learning to transform classrooms through inquiry-based learning. It accomplishes this through a three-pronged approach:
- It starts with a compelling question.
The curriculum focuses on questions that are complex and meaningful. They are aimed at sparking curiosity and driving student learning.
- It follows that question with a focus on a rigorous investigation.
Inquiry requires research and critical thinking. - And that investigation ultimately leads to action.
Students use the learning they gain from the first two steps to take concrete action and create solutions that ultimately affect the world.
Furthermore, inquirED provides a practical approach to social studies education that:
- Supports Culturally Responsive Instruction
The teaching strategies inquirED employs support student voice and choice and connects to students’ experiences and interests. - Inspires Inquiry-Based Learning
InquirED’s approach helps build knowledge in history, civics, geography, and economics through investigation and action. - Aligns to National Standards
InquirED resources and assessments align with history, civics, geography, economics, ELA, and SEL national and state standards. - Provides Teacher-Ready Tools
InquirED provides fully digital, customizable units and ready-to-use sources, strategies, and tools.
Organizations like inquirED are at the forefront of the innovative solutions needed to truly close the opportunity gap that plagues our country. We are excited to be able to support its work and look forward to its continued success at creating an education system focused on preparing today’s students and tomorrow leaders for whatever challenges they and the world may face.
You can learn more about this innovative work by visiting the inquirED website.