Using technology supported inquiry learning to engage first year students in large classes

This paper describes a study that explored the promotion of learner engagement among first year students through a technology facilitated inquiry learning approach. Students were given a series of authentic inquiry tasks supported by a raft of learning scaffolds. The technology-facilitated system supported timely feedback and support and administrative efficiencies for the tutors and teacher. This paper describes the web based system and reports aspects of an inquiry exploring the factors seen to influence students\u27 levels of engagement and achievement. Recommendations are drawn from the study for further instantiations of the approach with appropriate revisions and changes