The controversy about inquiry labs relative to traditional cookbook verification labs is apparently far from over. Verification labs have long been criticized as leading only to poor learning and poor attitudes regarding science among students doing this type of lab work. Conversely, inquiry labs have been shown to engender better conceptual understanding, investigative skills, and cognitive development among students doing inquiry lab work. Despite significant studies in the literature establishing the effectiveness of inquiry labs in comparison with verification labs, the use and dissemination of cookbook labs is still prevalent in many high school and college institutions. This commentary aims to counter Ault's argument that cookbook-type labs should have a place in the science curriculum.
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