Page 88 - OSEP Educator LG
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Types of Questions:
How questions are phrased will determine the amount and the quality of information
received from the person/s being spoken with. The type of question that should be asked
will depend on the situation and the type of information being looked for.
Open question Closed question
Definition An open question is a question that A closed question is a question that
invites comment invites a one-word answer such as
‘yes’ or ‘no’
Example ‘Tell me where you have experienced ‘Have you experienced … before?’
before?’ ‘Which button do you press to turn on
‘Explain how you would start the the machine?’
machine.’
Tips for Use open questions; Use closed questions when:
Use When you want to hear There is only one acceptable/true
feelings/ideas/opinions answer to the question
When you want to stimulate When you do not want to spend
discussion too much time on this subject
For more detailed responses
When you want to know prior
knowledge
Direct Question Indirect question
Definition A direct question is a question posed An indirect question is a question
to a particular person. posed to the group in general, rather
than to a particular person.
Example ‘John, what are your thoughts on…?’ ‘Does anyone have any thoughts
‘What are your thoughts on … Jenny?’ about…?’
Tips for Use direct questions when you want Use indirect questions:
Use to: In the early stages of working with
Hear the opinion of a particular your group, if you don’t know the
person
group members very well – a
Engage a particular person and
direct question may embarrass
encourage him/her then to enter
someone by putting them on the
into the discussion
spot.
Check a particular person’s
comprehension When you don’t mind who
responds.
Deter an ‘overly enthusiastic’
learner from answering every
question, so that others have a
chance to speak.
Page 82 OSEP Educator Learner’s Guide
