Questions and Inquiry
Questioning Methods – Overview
Use of questions develops meaning with problem solving and/or visioning. It is important to ask interpretive questions that develop understanding. Interpretive questions are effective with well planned formal discussions and in spontaneous informal settings of discsussion to develop ideas, communication, understanding and problem solving. Most importantly the interpretive questions are effective when they are well organized, open to facilitating interest and discussion, and lead to further understanding of the topic(s) and idea(s) being discussed.
Questioning Methods
Powerful Questions – is a question technique is used to build comprehension, inferential thinking, listening skills, understanding, and interest.
Collaborative Questions – is a collaborative learning method with questions.
Socratic Method – is is a form of cooperative argumentative dialogue between individuals, based on asking and answering questions to stimulate critical thinking and to draw out ideas and underlying presumptions. The Socratic Method is a series of questions formulated as tests of logic and fact intended to help a person or group discover their beliefs and understanding about a particular topic.
Discussing Things That Matter – Philosophy for Children – https://p4c.com/
Shared Inquiry – Great Books Foundation – https://www.greatbooks.org/
Types of Questions
Factual
A factual question has only one correct answer.
Evaluative
An evaluative question asks the participants to decide if s/he agree with the ideas or point of view (frame of reference). The answer to an evaluative question depends on the person’s prior knowledge, experience, and opinions.
Interpretive
An interpretive has more than one answer that can be supported with evidence from background knowledge and research. Interpretive questions keep dscussions going requiring the participants to refer to experiences, knowledge, text evidence and research.
The Socratic Method for Shared Inquiry
is a Philosophy for Children
Shared Inquiry is a method of teaching and learning that enables people of all ages to explore the ideas, meaning, and information found in everything they read. It centers on interpretive questions that have more than one plausible answer and can lead to engaging and insightful conversations about the text. It is recommended learning more about Shared Inquiry at The Great Books Foundation website and the concept of students being philosophical at the Philosophy for Children website.