discovery learning n also inquiring-based learning
(in education) an approach to teaching and learning which is based on the following principles:
a Learners develop processes associated with discovery and inquiry by observing, inferring, formulating hypotheses, predicting and communicating.
b Teachers use a teaching style which supports the processes of discovery and inquiry.
c Textbooks are not the sole resources for learning. d Conclusions are considered tentative and not final.
e Learners are involved in planning, conducting, and evaluating their own learning with the teacher playing a supporting role.
A number of language teaching approaches make use of discovery based approaches to learning, particularly communicative language teaching (see communicative approach) and the silent way.