Socratic Questioning:

Guidelines for General Application in Learning Activities

Abstract

Although Socratic questioning emerged more than 2,500 years ago, it remains highly relevant in contemporary education. It refers to a systematic process of inquiry aimed at exploring ideas, analyzing concepts, and critically examining assumptions through rational dialogue between learners and teachers. The method consists of seven types of questions: 1) questions for comprehension of the initial question 2) questions for clarification 3) questions to determine reasons and evidence 4) questions for exploring viewpoints 5) questions to determine implications and consequences 6) questions meant to evaluate assumption and 7) questions to determine goals and purposes. Due to the nature of these questions being the stimulation of systematic thinking, Socratic questioning is particularly suited for fostering critical thinking processes and promoting rational communication in present-day classrooms. Teachers can adapt and apply this approach during the introductory, instructional, and concluding phases of various instructional activities.