What is 'Enquiry-Based Learning'?

A simple definition of enquiry-based learning is to say that it is an approach characterised by 'learning through doing'. The student takes an active role in learning, by engaging with case studies or scenarios that call for sustained analysis and enquiry. The work is very student-centred, since participants in EBL direct their own lines of enquiry and identify suitable methods and data. The process of enquiry encourages participants to draw on prior knowledge and experience; and since many of the exercises are drawn from 'real life', it enables students to relate EBL to the demands of their own contexts and professional commitments.

On the professional doctorate in practical theology, we will be using enquiry-based learning as a way of fostering an ethos of 'practice-based research' amongst participants. Throughout your doctoral study, you will be encouraged to participate in exercises such as case studies, problem-based workshops and fieldwork visits which will enable you to sharpen important 'transferable skills' such as identifying research questions, problem-solving, research design and implementation, and communicating your research findings to others.