Asking the Probing Questions by Caitlyn

Asking the Probing Questions by Caitlyn - January 2015 Scholarship Essay

If I could provide teachers with one piece of advice to teachers which would help me to learn, I would recommend asking probing questions and really listening to my answers. Often teachers will ask the class, “Does anyone have any questions?” Of course, no one wants to raise their hand and ask a question; there is a fear of being the only one who did not understand the concept or how the problem was solved. By asking probing questions, teachers would be able to determine, through listening and observations, which students need additional help and which students really do understand the concept.

Teaching is not the only profession where probing questions are necessary. I plan to study nursing at Ball State University and know, from experience, how important it is to make sure that a concept or instruction is understood. Recently, I had to have surgery and was given instructions for care at home at discharge. Although I smiled and shook my head yes when asked if I understood everything I needed to do to take care of myself, I really didn’t understand all of the instructions. Luckily for me, my parents were there and asked the questions I was afraid to ask!

Unfortunately, we have become a very quick-paced culture, somewhat because of necessity; no one wants to be left behind. However, taking the time to make sure that what is being taught is fully understood is important. In today’s world, we really do only get one chance to learn and having teachers take the time to ask questions which really examine our understanding of the concept is crucial to really learning and understanding.