I had the joyful experience of observing a
unique lesson last week. The students and teacher were viewing a large picture
of a curious scene they had never seen. (Picture linked here)
Student questions started simple, but grew in complexity and awareness as a
sustained look at something together created more observations and wondering
thoughts. What are they doing? Why are they colouring the water? Is it on
purpose, or is this an accident? How did they know it was safe to land the
helicopter there? Where did the helicopter come from? How far away is the land?
Should I be worried about what they are doing?
By watching this interesting lesson, I
learned that being able to ask good questions is, like all parts of learning, something
that a student can practice and get better at. I also learned that asking
questions in a group setting helps everyone learn. At a recent curriculum and
development meeting our teachers spent time learning about questions.
Harnessing the power of student inquiry as way to shape learning is receiving a
lot of attention in education circles today, for good reason. How you ever
watched a child who won’t give up on something that has sparked their
curiosity?
Reading the New Testament stories of Jesus interacting
both with his disciples and those who challenged his authority, it is striking
how many times Jesus asked questions in response to a question he was asked.
Those questions led to learning. They were ways of teaching that communicated
purpose, direction, truth, and understanding. They often cut through human
limitations of understanding, or “traps” that were being set. Christ’s
questions brought those around him deeper and further into God’s truth and
invited a clearer understanding of faithful obedience.
May our students experience the same as
they grow in faith, wisdom, and love.
SJ
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