What is the Socratic Method?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Socratic_method
I don't use Wiki because anyone can actually change the info. there.
The Socratic Method is a pedagogical technique widely used in education and philosophy. It is a way of teaching and learning that involves a series of dialogue-based questions designed to stimulate critical thinking and promote thorough examination of ideas and assumptions.
To understand the Socratic Method, it is helpful to know the basics of the philosopher Socrates. Socrates believed that true wisdom comes from admitting ignorance and continuously questioning assumptions. He engaged in dialogues with his students, asking them probing questions to challenge their beliefs and explore the depths of their knowledge.
To get a deeper understanding of the Socratic Method, I can guide you through the process of using it:
1. Identify a topic or concept: Start by selecting a specific topic or concept that you want to explore. This could be anything from ethics to mathematics.
2. Ask an open-ended question: Begin by asking an open-ended question that prompts critical thinking and encourages discussion. Avoid questions that can be answered with a simple "yes" or "no." For example, instead of asking "Is lying morally wrong?", you could ask "What factors determine the morality of lying?"
3. Encourage responses: Allow the person or group you are engaging with to respond freely to the question. Listen carefully to their answers and avoid interjecting or challenging their ideas immediately.
4. Ask follow-up questions: Based on their responses, ask follow-up questions that delve deeper into the topic and challenge assumptions. These questions should encourage reflection, analysis, and reasoning. Some common follow-up questions might include "Can you provide an example to support your claim?" or "What are the implications of your viewpoint?"
5. Continue the dialogue: Engage in an ongoing conversation, continually asking questions that build upon previous answers. The goal is to encourage critical thinking, identify contradictions or inconsistencies in reasoning, and stimulate the exploration of different perspectives.
6. Summarize and analyze: Once the dialogue has reached a point of exploration, summarize the points discussed and analyze the arguments. Reflect on any new insights gained and consider whether any changes in thinking or understanding have occurred.
The Socratic Method is a valuable tool for fostering critical thinking skills, encouraging active learning, and promoting deeper understanding of complex topics. By engaging in thought-provoking dialogue and asking meaningful questions, learners are able to uncover their own knowledge and challenge their assumptions.