How does inquiry compare with the scientific method? While inquiry can be incorporated into all content areas, it is most commonly implemented in science classrooms. Why is inquiry important in science classrooms? The process of inquiry not only enhances students" understanding of natural phenomena, but also develops students' science process skills. It is a nonlinear variation of the scientific method. Composed of the same basic components, both the scientific method and the inquiry process require students to conduct research investigations by formulating a question, developing a hypothesis, conducting an experiment, recording data, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions