Tool 23/30 - Inquiry based learning

 

The objectives of this short ten minute exercise -

1. To learn a management tool that will be helpful in work life 
2. To apply the learning

1. To start a great day using this morning ritual

Step 1 - the warm up

Keep your journal and pen at hand

Sit in a relaxed position with an intent to go into a ‘flow state’ to learn something new

Take three deep, powerful breaths to lock in your focus and start the next step

Step 2 - the learning

About Inquiry based learning

Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL) is an educational approach that encourages learners to ask questions, explore, and discover solutions independently. It promotes critical thinking and problem-solving. 

Introduced in the mid-20th century by educational theorists like John Dewey, IBL is used in business training to foster creativity, innovation, and active learning.

Situations (examples) where this tool can be best used

• Direct customer research for market exploration
• Conducting open-ended discussions for improving employee engagement
• Visiting supplier sites to investigate supply delay issues

The top three mental muscles (competencies) developed by practicing this tool

• Empathy - to seek a deeper understanding of others' emotions, perspectives, and experiences
• Interpersonal skills (Negotiation skills) - to focus on the deeper motivations behind decisions 
• Problem solving - addressing challenges thoughtfully and decisively

A corporate story to understand the usage of this tool

The Chung Eui-sun’s story at Hyundai

Questioning & Problem Identification - When Chung Eui-sun became Chairman of Hyundai, he asked: How can Hyundai transition from a traditional automaker to a future mobility leader? He identified key challenges - EV competition and sustainability

Investigation & Research - Chung initiated market research, competitor analysis, and expert consultations to explore EVs, hydrogen fuel, and autonomous driving. He studied Tesla, engaged with scientists, and collaborated with tech firms  

Discovery - His inquiry-based approach led to

• Identifying the need for a dedicated EV platform - E-GMP (a dedicated platform for EVs, including the chassis, battery, motor, and power electric system)
• Expansion into hydrogen fuel cells, robotics, and urban air mobility
• Investments in AI-driven vehicle solutions 

Impact

• Launched Ioniq 5 & 6, boosting Hyundai’s EV market share
• Led in hydrogen fuel technology, ensuring long-term sustainability
• Acquired Boston Dynamics, advancing robotics innovation

By applying Inquiry-Based Learning, Chung Eui-sun transformed Hyundai into a global leader in future mobility.

A story from the World Wars

My personal story

Context

I was always given unfamiliar tasks - Rolling out new processes, PCMM certification ... Product transitioning.... Employee engagement.... Y2K compliance for the company.... When I look back, I see that I could have implemented Inquiry-based learning principles and benefitted from this framework - this is how..

Questioning & problem identification - I could have used the 5W1H method to understand and document the deliverables

Investigation & research - I could have clearly documented what value I am adding to myself and to the organisation. I could have planned as if I am a top performer. I could have researched some best practices for implementation and identified risks and their mitigations. I could have also asked my bosses as to why this responsibility was given to me…

Discovery - I created a brand for myself for taking up almost every first project; I uncovered some new skills that I possessed in the process

Step 3 - the reflection

Sit back, go down memory lane, think of various events in your work life where you could have used this learning.

If nothing comes to mind, think of a situation that would help you answer any one of these interview questions.

1. “How do you approach learning new skills or technologies?” - Highlight how you use inquiry-based methods like questioning, research, experimentation, and reflection to master new knowledge
2. “Have you ever challenged an existing process or system? What was the outcome?” - Explain how you questioned inefficiencies, conducted investigations, tested new approaches, and implemented a successful improvement
3. “How do you handle situations where you don’t have all the answers?” - Demonstrate your ability to use inquiry by asking the right questions, gathering insights, experimenting ……

Step 4 - the practice

Apply your learning to the situation you selected above.

• Questioning & problem identification
• Investigation & research
• Discovery
• Impact

Step 5 - the victory lap

Celebrate your achievement for a minute. Maybe a quick victory lap doing some energizing exercise?

**

To those who felt, “Using these tools can increase transparency, making some individuals uncomfortable.” (fear of accountability?) - Do you feel that the last ten minutes were worth the effort?

I must tell you that some inspirational companies have institutionalised this tool (Google, Amazon, 3M, IDEO) 

This exercise is not only about management tools. It’s about building a neural pathway. And it’s about my mantra for creating small daily acts of feeling successful and happy. 

Don’t forget to carry this image 👇 in your mind. There could be a great situation where you may want to use the tool. Keep a log of all such situations. This practice will help you when you want to train someone.

My congratulations for your first dose of the day of success and happiness. Have a great day ahead.