What is the "Socratic Method"?

The Socratic Method is characterized by a form of cooperative argumentative dialogue that promotes critical thinking and helps illuminate ideas through the process of questioning. This technique encourages participants to engage deeply with concepts, explore different perspectives, and arrive at conclusions through discussion rather than through direct instruction. By asking probing questions, a facilitator can guide learners to discover answers themselves, thereby enhancing their understanding and retention of the material. This method is rooted in the principles of Socratic questioning, which focuses on developing a clear and critical thought process, pushing learners to examine their beliefs and reasoning thoroughly. The emphasis here is on dialogue and inquiry, rather than straightforward delivery of information or competition among students.