What is "open-ended questioning" and its benefit in instruction?

Open-ended questioning involves asking questions that encourage students to express their thoughts, opinions, and reasoning in a more expansive manner rather than simply providing a one-word answer or a yes/no response. This type of questioning promotes dialogue, allowing for a deeper exploration of topics and concepts.

One of the primary benefits of open-ended questions in instruction is that they stimulate critical thinking, encouraging learners to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information rather than just recalling facts. This interactive approach fosters a richer learning environment where students feel more engaged and involved in the conversation, leading to enhanced learning retention and understanding. By facilitating discussions, instructors can assess students' comprehension and address misconceptions in real-time, further enriching the educational experience.