The Power of Questioning

Questioning is central to learning and growing.  – McKenzie

Learners perceive and learn in many different ways.  Some learn best when they read information in a book while others prefer to see information illustrated in charts and graphs.  We also have some who need to hear more explanations to successfully comprehend and recall the information.  Despite these differences in learning style, all of them can improve the way they assimilate  information and that is through the technique of questioning.

Questioning allows us to make sense of the world.   This is one of the most powerful tools we have to take decisions and solving problems; to invent; and to change and improve the desired learning outcome.

Theoretical construct

The Case for Constructivist Classrooms by Jacqueline and Martin Brooks discusses Constructivism as a theory of learning founded on the premise that, by reflecting on our experiences, we construct our own understanding of  life.  Each of us generates our own rules and mental models, which we use to make sense from our experiences.

According to them, constructivism calls for the elimination of a standardized curriculum.  Instead, it promotes using curricula customized to the learners’ prior knowledge.  Under this theory, educators focus on making connections between facts and fostering new understanding in students.

Instructors tailor their teaching strategies to student responses and encourage them to analyze, interpret, and predict information.  Educators also rely heavily on open-ended questions and promote extensive dialogue among students.

Another related theory is Vygotsky’s Social Cognition Theory.   The social cognition learning model asserts that culture is the prime determinant of individual development.   Thus, a  learning development is affected in ways large and small by the culture–including the culture of family environment–in which he or she is enmeshed.  Since children learn much through interaction, curricula shall be designed to emphasize interaction between learners and learning tasks.

Reflections and insights

Questioning is the act of asking queries that has a natural feature of communication which is also considered as one of the most important tools that educators have at their disposal.  Thus, it becomes student-centered approach because of the maximum learner contributions.

Related Article

• Learning Styles and Constructionism (weber.k12.ut.us)