Which strategy is most effective in evaluating learners' ability to apply inquiry skills?

Developing a performance assessment that requires authentic task completion is the most effective strategy for evaluating learners' ability to apply inquiry skills because it immerses students in real-world tasks that mirror the skills they are learning. Performance assessments allow students to demonstrate their understanding and application of inquiry skills in context, enabling educators to observe how they engage with information, formulate questions, conduct research, analyze findings, and draw conclusions.

This method goes beyond rote memorization or simple knowledge recall, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving as students navigate through complex tasks. Performance assessments offer insight into both the process and the final product, allowing educators to evaluate not just what students know, but how they think and operate while engaging in inquiry-based learning. As learners work through authentic tasks, they must employ various inquiry skills in a cohesive manner, showcasing their ability to apply what they have learned in practical situations.