Which learning method involves exploring challenges and discovering new ideas through curiosity?

Discovery learning is a method that emphasizes exploration and the construction of knowledge through personal experiences and curiosity. This approach allows learners to engage directly with materials, concepts, and challenges, fostering an environment where they can uncover information and develop understanding on their own. The essence of discovery learning lies in the learner's active role; instead of passively receiving information from an instructor, learners ask questions, generate hypotheses, and seek answers through experimentation and observation.

This method is particularly effective because it encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills. By pursuing their interests and curiosities, learners become more invested in the content and are likely to retain information better. This type of learning is often contrasted with more traditional, direct instruction methods, where the focus is primarily on memorization and recall rather than exploration and inquiry.

In contrast, while project-based learning and inquiry-based learning also encourage active engagement, they can have different focuses and structures. Project-based learning typically revolves around a specific project or outcome, and inquiry-based learning is often guided by structured questions. Experiential learning emphasizes learning through experience but might not prioritize discovery in the same way that discovery learning does.