Deepening learning through inquiry, innovation and teamwork.
The Networks
The Networks of Inquiry and Indigenous Education (NOIIE) is a voluntary network of inquiry-based schools and school districts in British Columbia, with partner networks around the world. Using an inquiry-oriented, evidence-based approach to learning and teaching through the Spiral of Inquiry, teams work towards improving outcomes for all learners in their settings and submit case studies to share their progress in a spirit of generosity, curiosity and growth.
View our most recent 2021 Impact Report.
The Network is dedicated to:
PURPOSE
To create a socially just society in which every learner crosses the stage with dignity, purpose, and options.
MISSION
To make sure every learner has the chance to thrive by creating and mobilizing a culture of inquiry, quality, and collaboration within and across schools.
CORE VALUES
Respect: We listen to and honour all learners. We value diverse ideas, opinions, and ways of being and doing.
Collaboration: By sharing ideas and working together, we develop greater insights, knowledge, and support. Relationships matter, and matter most.
Learning: By being open to ongoing learning, we are able to adapt our skills and knowledge to fit our contexts. We practice professional vulnerability and risk-taking.
Quality: We continually strive to improve our outcomes by re-evaluating our ideas and actions based on evidence.
Equity: We create supportive environments where every learner can thrive. We question our bias and privilege and encourage others to do the same.
History
The NOII (Networks of Inquiry and Innovation), established in 2000 and initially funded by the BC Ministry of Education, was designed to improve the quality and equity of education in BC through inquiry, teamwork across roles, schools and districts, as well as a focus on applying coaching forms of assessment to assist learners to take greater ownership of their learning. In 2010, the Aboriginal Enhancement Schools Network (AESN) was established to specifically address improving outcomes for Aboriginal learners. AESN schools focused their inquiries specifically around Indigenous education, such as addressing goals associated with their school district Aboriginal Enhancement agreements, integrating Indigenous worldviews and ways of knowing into schools and classrooms, or engaging in land and place-based learning.
In 2018, the Networks adopted a new name to cohesively tie all of the work together – the Networks of Inquiry and Indigenous Education (NOIIE).
The Networks image – Floating Stones – is used with the permission from New Zealand photography, Martin Hill.
NOIIE Winner of the 2019 Cmolik Prize
We are thrilled to announce that the 2019 $100,000 Cmolik Prize for the Enhancement of Public Education in B.C. has been awarded to Debbie Leighton-Stephens, Judy Halbert and Linda Kaser for their innovative Networks of Inquiry and Indigenous Education (NOIIE). The inquiry-oriented, evidence-based approach to learning and teaching has improved education in British Columbia. Thank you to the Cmolik Foundation and Simon Fraser University for this honour and support to further the work of the Networks.