ABSTRACT
The Socratic method is often thought of as a form of teaching or as a teaching tactic. It can be a powerful method for directing a learner toward critical thinking. The leader of the dialogue in the Socratic method asks probing questions with the objective of developing critical thought – typically in the area of values, beliefs, and principles. This method has shown that asking questions can lead to a greater understanding of a person’s actions in a given context and of which behaviors may be more effective than others. If we are to learn from others’ reactions and behaviors and develop our behaviors and actions, we need to know how to gather, process, and filter the information. One way to do this is by asking better questions and by being systematic in how we approach asking questions and engaging in discussions. Chapter 7 focuses on how to build and participate in a questioning strategy. Question types are defined, and illustrations for each type of question are applied to management competencies. A plan for question development is offered, and examples are included.
