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Open Inquiry: Talking Maize and Blue

In support of open inquiry initiatives on campus, this guide provides advice and resources to help our community explore the open inquiry behaviors and critical thinking habits that can make someone more comfortable with open dialogic experiences.

What Is Open Inquiry?

Inquiry based learning is a student-centered pedagogical approach that empowers learners to develop a questioning mindset.  According to the International Encyclopedia of Education, inquiry based learning

"emphasizes classroom practices that involve active participation of the learner as well as a prominent role for questions and issues generated by the learner. Generally stated, inquiry is based on a scientific investigation through classroom practices such as posing questions and it is aimed at knowledge acquisition and development"

Outside of the classroom, open inquiry, a type of unstructured inquiry based learning, can be applied to community conversations and interpersonal dialogue.  Honest and open inquiry is a powerful way to learn more about yourself, others, and the world around you.  This guide is designed only as a resource if you need a way to find support in your open inquiry endeavors.

Talking Maize and Blue

The University of Michigan has sponsored an effort to facilitate open inquiry on campus.  These U-M campus events, websites, and resources can support your open inquiry endeavors.

Last Updated: Oct 6, 2025 4:32 PM