Promoting more effective student questions through specific questioning strategies

Abstract

This project addresses the question "Do students understand key scientific concepts better with training in the use of specific questioning strategies?" Students were trained specifically in composing questions using the cognitive domain of Bloom's Taxonomy, as well as in developing experiments, inventions and models using Cothron's Four Question Strategy. Students engaged in several inquiry activities, both independently and in large and small groups, to practice these strategies and approaches. The results of this research suggest that there is a strong correlation between employing these strategies to improve students' questioning skills and the students' understanding of key concepts surrounding questioning and inquiry.