Adapting Web-Based Inquiry Learning Environments from One Country to Another: The CoReflect Experience

Abstract

This chapter discusses the process of adapting inquiry learning environments (LEs) from one national context to another, drawing from the collaboration of eight partners from Europe and Israel, all participating in the European project “Digital Support for Inquiry, Collaboration, and Reflection on Socio-scientific Debates” (CoReflect, http://www.coreflect.org). Each national Local Working Group (LWG), which was comprised of researchers, practicing teachers, and science experts, used a common theoretical framework to design, enact, and investigate web-based inquiry LEs on socio-scientific issues. Following design-based research and iterative improvements of the LEs through local enactments, the LWGs translated each learning environment in English and one other language. The LEs were adapted and used in authentic classroom environments in a different country. Four of the seven adaptations are reported here and implications for educational praxis are discussed.