Adapting the 5E Inquiry-based Model in Online Science Teaching

The preoccupation with equipping science learning among students has engendered educators to explore various approaches and strategies in the online setup. A plethora of studies promoted the use of the 5E inquiry-based approach to augment science learning. Yet, a dearth of studies employing this approach is observed especially in the New Normal setup, hence, the conduct of the study. The study ventured into how senior high school teachers’ and students’ experiences and strategies can serve as inputs to the implementation and development of the 5E inquiry-based instruction model in online science teaching following a case-study design. The participants of the study were purposively sampled. Qualitative data were generated from the answers of the teachers to open-ended questions and thematically analyzed. A focused group discussion with students was conducted to triangulate the data. Data revealed a recalibration of the model wherein the “Evaluate” phase is an integrative phase of all phases and teachers exemplify an iterative process of “Explain” and “Elaborate” phases in the online setup. The researchers recommend the development and validation of lesson exemplars for biology, physics, and chemistry capitalizing on the adapted teaching model.