We describe the initial prototypes of several Intelligent tutoring systems
designed to build students' scientific Inquiry skills. These Inquiry skills are
taught In the context of acquiring knowledge of principles from a mlcroworld
that models a specific domain. We have Implemented microworlds for
microeconomics, electricity, and light refraction. All of the systems are highly
interactive; students can pose questions, conduct experiments by manipulating
domain specific factors, and record results. Using protocol studies of expert
and non-expert learners using these microworlds we identify important inquiry
strategies. W e have represented these strategies formally, allowing the
mlcroworld to detect effective and ineffective Inquiry strategies. W e conclude
with a description of a partially implemented 'inquiry coach*. This coach will
be incorporated into the microworlds and teach the Inquiry strategies in the
context of the specific mlcroworld domain knowledge.