New York State Teacher Certification Examinations (NYSTCE) Early Childhood Practice Test 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

Inquiry-based learning aligns best with the philosophy of promoting self-directed learning in young children. This approach encourages children to explore, ask questions, and engage in problem-solving, fostering their natural curiosity. Through inquiry-based learning, children take an active role in their education, directing their own learning experiences rather than relying solely on the teacher for information and guidance.

This strategy emphasizes exploration and discovery, allowing children to pursue their interests, make choices, and reflect on their experiences, which are essential components of self-directed learning. By engaging in inquiry, children learn how to learn, develop critical thinking skills, and become more motivated and engaged learners.

In contrast, while cooperative learning and direct instruction have their educational merits, they do not specifically prioritize the child’s individual initiative and curiosity in the same way. Passive observation does not actively engage the child in the learning process, making it less effective in promoting self-directed learning.