Analyzing the Inquiry Learning Abilities of Elementary School Students Using a Simulation System: A Preliminary Exploration

This study explores elementary school students' inquiry abilities using an online simulation system focused on socioscientific issues in Taiwan. It examines changes in students' self-perceived inquiry abilities across five stages: problem hypothesis, observation, data collection, induction and interpretation, and discussion. The research utilizes a simulation on the survival crisis of Formosan leopard cats, engaging students in role-playing to foster socioscientific inquiry skills. Results indicate metacognitive improvement in analyzing abilities, while varied factors like system design limitations and interpersonal dynamics during discussions affect students’ performances. The study suggests enhancements to inquiry-based learning designs with more supportive scaffolds during the inquiry process.