What kinds of questions should you ask during a collaborative discussion?

Question

questions on which everyone must agree

questions that clarify other people’s responses

questions that encourage debates

questions that require a yes or no answer

Answer 1

During a collaborative discussion, it's most beneficial to ask:

1. Questions that clarify other people’s responses: These help to ensure that everyone understands each other and provides an opportunity for clarification, which can lead to a more productive conversation.

2. Questions that encourage debates: These can stimulate critical thinking and help to explore different perspectives, leading to richer discussions and potentially more innovative solutions.

While there are scenarios where questions that require a yes or no answer can be useful, they often limit discussion and do not promote collaborative dialogue. Similarly, questions on which everyone must agree can stifle individual viewpoints and discourage open communication. Therefore, the focus should be on encouraging understanding and exploration of ideas rather than seeking consensus or simple answers.