The role of the teacher in promoting dialogue and polylogue during inquiry activities in primary education

In inquiry, dialogue between persons present in the classroom can be enriched with polylogue with knowledgeable others outside of the classroom. This study aimed to find out what role dialogue and polylogue play in encouraging philosophical inquiry in three other forms of inquiry in primary education: inquiry as experimental research, inquiry by consulting sources, and inquiry of practices. More specifically, the authors wanted to know how teachers as more experienced others can promote dialogue and polylogue. The three forms of inquiry are illustrated with transcripts from classroom interaction. Crucial in each form of inquiry is the role of the teacher in creating opportunities for dialogue and polylogue in the interaction between children.