Student questioning generated from an inquiry of an authentic reindeer head

Abstract

This study pays special attention to students’ curiosity in science topics, and analyzes their capability in formulating adequate questions for deeper learning. One 5thgrade class and one 6 thgrade class, each divided into smaller groups, were given authentic reindeer heads and challenged to use their “own-hands-skills” in search for new knowledge. Each group had to agree upon at least three research-questions which they wanted to investigate further through a practical inquiry lesson in a science laboratory facility at the local university campus. Data were collected from students filming the lesson with head-mounted cameras. Analyzes of the translated film material indicate that students indeed were curious of the context, but to a limited extend asked questions which potentially could lead to more advanced knowledge and deeper learning. This give rise to new research questions such as; how can we make students wonder and reflect stronger upon phenomena presented in science classrooms?