What defines the "Socratic questioning" technique in education?

The "Socratic questioning" technique is defined by its use of guided questions to stimulate critical thinking. This approach encourages students to explore complex ideas and foster a deeper understanding of the subject matter rather than simply recalling facts. By engaging learners in a dialogue that prompts them to think actively, Socratic questioning helps develop their analytical and reasoning skills. This technique is rooted in the philosophy of Socrates, who believed that through questioning, an individual can uncover the truth and clarify their thoughts.

The other options do not encapsulate the essence of Socratic questioning. Rote memorization emphasizes recalling information without understanding, while lecturing focuses on delivering content rather than engaging students in dialogue. Avoiding direct answers may lead to confusion rather than clarity, which counters the primary goal of Socratic questioning—to promote deep thinking and comprehension.