Guided Inquiry: Learning in the 21st Century

Based on Kuhlthau's six stage Information Search Process, the authors present a convincing argument for recasting Guided Inquiry as a dynamic, innovative way of developing information literacy. Part I discusses the theory and rationale behind adopting a Guided Inquiry approach, as the authors elucidate the expertise, roles, and responsibilities of each member of the instructional team. Part II presents the model in terms of its component parts. PreK-12.

Noted researcher Kuhlthau has teamed up with a curriculum specialist and museum educator to create this foundational text on Guided Inquiry, a dynamic, integrated approach to teaching curriculum content, information literacy, and strategies for learning. Grounded in Kuhlthau's Information Search Process from her classic text Seeking Meaning and built on solid professional practice, this innovative team approach inspires students to gain deeper understandings and higher order thinking using the rich resources of the school library, the community and the wider world. This book provides the vital tools for educators to create collaborative environments where students experience school learning and real life meshed in integral ways―learning in the 21st century.

Carol C. Kuhlthau is professor emerita of library and information science at Rutgers University, where she directed the graduate program in school librarianship that has been rated number one in the country by U.S. News & World Report.

Leslie K. Maniotes, PhD, is an education consultant and the cocreator and professional developer of Guided Inquiry Design®.

Ann K. Caspari is senior museum educator for the Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center.