Reports a study that examined the effects of conceptual orienting questions and differences in prior knowledge on factual learning and problem solving in biology. Tenth graders who participated in control or orienting questions groups completed posttests. Results indicated that question groups outscored the control group. (SM)

Study examined whether kindergartners were capable of reflecting on their thinking processes to make self-assessments. Evaluations of audiotapes made during whole-group activities indicated that when children were given opportunities to talk and express their metacognitive skills, they took charge of their own learning and became confident,…

Critical background references on the problems related to comprehension of science text material, a conceptual framework on which to base instructional decisions, and some specific activities designed to enhance science reading comprehension are presented. (36 references) (KR)

Four hearing-impaired children (ages 9-11) with learning problems answered questions focused on picture description. The children understood question words but answered the questions incorrectly 75 percent of the time. The children had difficulty determining the topic of discourse, were confused by the sequence in classroom discourse, and relied…

This study addressed effects of varied presentations of advance organizers on text recall of grade level content area reading by 30 seventh grade subjects with reading problems. Most effective was oral delivery of the advance organizer followed by guided discussion. Recall was also improved if questions were asked soon after reading and were…

Describes questioning methods trainers can use to uncover training needs (interviews, surveys, test questions, program evaluations). Illustrates the use of questions at the beginning, middle, and end of training sessions. (SK)

Outlines the theory and practice of debriefing and considers its importance in experiential learning and outdoor adventure education. Discusses theories of transfer of learning; levels of cognitive processing in relation to sequence of debriefing questions and activities; establishing supportive group behaviors; 10 soft skills needed by debriefing…

Reports a study that developed a strategy to help students comprehend and remember the content of training presentations. The study examined the effects of self-questioning and reciprocal peer-questioning strategies on preservice teachers' learning of orally-presented material and on their verbal interaction. Results suggest that this strategy…

The soliciting-and-reacting-moves questioning technique used in science classrooms is described. The importance of using both higher-order and lower-level questions during a lesson is discussed. An example of a dialogue between a student and teacher using this technique is included. (KR)

Offers ideas for asking good questions in the classroom. Recommends that key questions be written down prior to class. Questions should clearly cue students to respond specifically and briefly. Presents examples of types of questions that have been found either to encourage or to inhibit thinking. (JS)

Encourages teachers to allow students to engage in conversation and discuss what they do and do not understand. Discusses different types of questions found in classroom instruction: factual questions, reasoning questions, and open questions. To promote communication, teachers must change their beliefs about instruction. (PDD)

Thirty-four fifth graders in three conditions worked in pairs to learn science materials presented in classroom lessons. Students who used highly elaborated question stems outperformed those using less elaborated systems and unguided questions. Findings indicate that structured guidance in asking questions elicits explanations that mediate…

Examined a classroom in which fourth graders' questions dominated the discourse, investigating how the teacher reduced forces that discourage student questions in instruction. Observation and interview data indicated that the teacher respected her students as well-intentioned learners, viewed the assumptions revealed by student questions as steps…

Argues that social-studies curricula should foster values and practices consistent with democratic values; that this requires critical thinkers who can make informed decisions; and that decision making is based on being able to ask good, probing questions. Discusses the nature of middle-school learners, the strengthening of democracy, and…

Investigates the intuitive beliefs held by students (N=2326) about a number of well-known physical events. Finds that the context of the question has a clear effect on the frequency with which different options are selected in physically similar situations. (DDR)