“I cannot teach anybody anything, I can only make them think.” – Socrates
Every time I read the words, they resonate deeply with me. It makes so much sense, don’t you agree?
You cannot teach someone something; you can only share your knowledge. It’s up to them to think about what they’ve received, ponder over it and then use in the most beneficial way.
But how do you get someone to think? It’s not something that can be achieved with the flick of a switch.
It’s about unlocking the mind. It’s a skill that has to be practiced so you can unleash the maximum benefits.
If you want to stimulate critical thinking and set on the path of self-discovery, then adopting the Socratic method is the right approach.
It’s based on asking open-ended questions; not direct answers but correctly worded questions which encourage further thinking.
There’s no age limit to when you can start using this method. But it’s best if you can start early and apply this method for children so they develop a mindset which is independent, reflective and creative.
Why Is Socratic Method Effective for Kids?
Developed by the Greek philosopher Socrates, this method involves a continuous interaction between the teacher and the students, exploring the beliefs and ideas of the students.
Like by constantly asking the student to elaborate or explain explicitly, the teacher encourages the student to explore their own views and opinions.
The questions are all why, what, how or if type questions which create open-ended queries for the students to address.
Such an approach encourages inquiry instead of blind consumption of knowledge or rote learning.
It further allows the student to go deeper to develop a better understanding of their thinking.
When applying this method with children, watch how it –
- stimulates their curiosity
- increases their love for learning
- improves their problems solving skills
- fosters reasoning
- builds their confidence when they’re able to express their ideas clearly.
I would often ask my kids (I mean, students) lots of questions instead of closing the interaction with indifferent responses.
I saw this movie! – Good, did you like it? What was your favourite part?
I bought a new toy. – That’s nice but why did you buy that one?
I don’t like going to the park. – Any particular reason you don’t like going there?
Everything was an opportunity for them to think about their decision, review it, understand it. by asking them open-ended questions, it allowed me to know them better, understand them. Thus it led to having more meaningful conversations with them.
How to Use the Socratic Method with Kids
If you want to use Socratic method for children, then keep the following in mind.
- Always begin with open ended questions. Avoid the yes / no answers.
The objective must be to explore.
Eg Why do some stars appear to twinkle and some don’t?
2. Show them how to reflect. Give them time to think before answering.
Eg. Do you think it was right to not share your colour pencils with your friend?
Build on the questions with follow up prompts.
3. Challenge their assumptions. It’s not to show them down or prove you superiority. It’s to develop their reasoning.
Eg. What if she was telling the truth? What would you do then?
4. Encourage discussion or dialogue, not debate.
You don’t need to confront them or get aggressive. Keep the interaction collaborative.
Eg. That’s an interesting idea. Let’s find out more together.
5. Think from their perspective. Adapt to their age and interests.
Their thinking and understanding is still developing. Tailor the questions according to their development stage and interests.
Like it’s no point talking politics with the 5 year old.
6. Don’t overwhelm them with questions. Maintain a conversational flow instead of making it look like a interrogation.
Ask them one or two meaningful questions, allowing them time to think.
So next time your child asks a question, don’t just answer it. instead ask another question.
If you haven’t used the Socratic method for your children yet, it’s not too late. Even as grown-ups, it can help you bring about positive changes in your thinking. Try it out.
How it using the Socratic Method Helps As an Adult
- Encourages Critical Thinking
By asking open-ended questions, and challenging your assumptions, it promotes deeper analysis, helping you to make more informed and rational decisions.
For example, a simple question of changing your job can be a situation for broader evaluation of options like potential challenges or opportunities, learning, growth, salary, etc.
2. Enhances Communication Skills
You learn to engage in thoughtful dialogue because you’re able to articulate your ideas clearly, listen actively to what is being said, and respond constructively during conversations or debates.
3. Promotes Self-Awareness
Your ability to reflect on your beliefs and values through questioning yourself reveals to you the underlying motivations, biases, and areas for personal growth.
Try to recollect when was the last time you asked an open-ended question instead of giving an answer.
4. Improves Problem-Solving
The method focuses on breaking down complex issues into smaller questions. It fosters novel and effective solutions to the challenges you face at work or in life.
5. Encourages Open-Mindedness
You learn to become more tolerant and adaptable, enabling better collaboration and understanding of others. And this is because of your ability to explore multiple perspectives through questioning,
6. Strengthens Decision-Making
Examining the consequences of choices and reasoning behind actions allows you to be more confident, making the decision-making process ethical.
7. Fosters Lifelong Learning
The habit of questioning drives curiosity and continuous learning, keeping the mind active and adaptable.
Final Thoughts
Using Socratic method helps the children develop their critical thinking from an early age. This further helps them to ponder over their thoughts, ideas and decisions. This is exactly what’s needed for them to grow into thinking independent adults.
As an adult, it transforms the way you approach the challenges you face, your relationships and, more importantly, your goals. The change in your mindset builds your intellectual strength by channelling your curiosity and growth.
Your ability to have a more impactful dialogue than just giving answers, your innate curiosity and your ability to reinforce your ideas makes you powerful.
Keep the questions rolling. Remember, each question is leading up to more questions and answers.
It may seem daunting at first asking them questions instead of giving a straight answer but with time it’ll grow on you.
You’ll be amazed at the thinking it sparks, leading to a lifelong quest. One question has the power to change everything.
