.:. Habits of Minds 15 .:.

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One of the distinguishing characteristics between humans and other forms of life is our inclination, and ability to FIND problems to solve. Effective problem solvers know how to ask questions to fill in the gaps between what they know and what they don't know. Effective questioners are inclined to ask a range of questions. For example requests for data to support others' conclusions and assumptions—such questions as,

"What evidence do you have...?"
"How do you know that's true?"
"How reliable is this data source?"

They pose questions about alternative points or view:

"From whose viewpoint are we seeing, reading of hearing?"
"From what angle, what perspective are we viewing this situation?"

Students pose questions, which make causal connections and relationships:

"How are these people (events) (situations) related to each other?"
"What produced this connection?"

They pose hypothetical problems characterized by "iffy"-type questions:

"What do you think would happen IF...?"
"IF that is true, then what might happen if...?"

The formulation of a problem is often more essential than its solution, which
maybe merely a matter of mathematical or
experimental skill.
To raise new questions, new possibilities,
to regard old problems from a new angle,
requires creative imagination and marks
real advances...
- Albert Einstein

Inquirers recognize discrepancies and phenomena in their environment and probe into their causes:
"Why do cats purr?" "How high can birds fly?" "Why does the hair on my head grow so fast, while the hair on my arms and legs grows so slowly?", "What would happen if we put the saltwater fish in a fresh water aquarium?" "What are some alternative solutions to international conflicts other than wars?"

Some students may be unaware of the functions, classes, syntax or intentions in questions. They may not realize that questions vary in complexity, structure and purpose. They may pose simple questions intending to derive maximal results. When confronted with a discrepancy, they may lack an overall strategy of search and solution finding. -Arthur L. Costa, Ed. D.

Learning Activities:
* Practise posing questions when you read newspapers or magazines.
* Choose an interesting article on local events and pose questions on the outcome of blthe event.