ABSTRACT
In this chapter, Daniel R. Meier offers a framework for early childhood educators to integrate a stance toward inquiry, observation, and reflection in working with children in a nature- and place-based curriculum. The framework provides a conceptual foundation for raising our awareness of the value of inquiry in nature teaching and learning, and offers practical strategies for starting and sustaining nature inquiry. Daniel defines and explains the inquiry process, describes key benefits of linking nature education and teacher inquiry, and describes specific strategies for promoting successful inquiry work in nature education. Daniel also emphasizes how the linking of nature and place-based education and inquiry can promote inclusion and equity in early childhood contexts for teachers, children, and families.
