Which instructional strategy encourages deep understanding through discussions and questioning?

The Socratic seminar is an instructional strategy that emphasizes dialogue and critical thinking. This method encourages students to engage deeply with a text or topic through open-ended questions, fostering an environment where they can explore different perspectives and articulate their reasoning. By participating in discussions, students learn to analyze their thoughts, build on the ideas of others, and refine their understanding of complex concepts. This approach promotes higher-order thinking skills, as students must not only think critically but also listen actively and respond thoughtfully to their peers.

In contrast, lecture-based instruction and direct instruction typically involve a more teacher-centered approach, where the teacher delivers information and students are expected to absorb it passively rather than engaging in deep discussions. Standardized testing does not facilitate discussions or deep understanding; instead, it focuses on assessing knowledge through predetermined questions, which often limits the opportunity for critical dialogue. Overall, the Socratic seminar stands out for its focus on inquiry and collaborative learning, making it effective for promoting a deep understanding of subject matter.