Using Socratic Questioning

This material was originally created for Starting Point:Introductory Geology
and is replicated here as part of the SERC Pedagogic Service.

Created by Dorothy Merritts and Robert Walter, Franklin & Marshall College

Can it be, Ischomachus, that asking questions is teaching? I am just beginning to see what is behind all your questions. You lead me on by means of things I know, point to things that resemble them, and persuade me that I know things that I thought I had no knowledge of.

- Socrates (Quoted in Xenophon's "Economics")

What is Socratic Questioning?

Named for the early Greek philosopher/teacher Socrates, a Socratic approach to teaching is one in which the instructor poses thoughtful questions to help students learn. This is perhaps best demonstrated with an example. (learn more here)

Why use Socratic Questioning?

Socratic Questioning provides unique opportunities for critical thinking and student reflection. (learn more here)

How to use Socratic Questioning

Tips on developing questions and managing discussion. (learn more here)

References

Books and links for more information. (learn more here)

Examples

See how the method works in a geoscience classroom. (learn more here)