The Monday Morning Memo #1: Questions That Promote Reflection

Happy Monday! This week’s focus is on promoting reflection through questions.📚 PROFESSIONAL STRATEGYSpring is hectic. It is also a time for reflection and renewal. We can encourage teachers to explore the proverbial question "Why am I doing what I'm doing?" with thoughtful questions. During classroom visits, ask "How did you come to make this change in your practice?" or "What do you see as a possible impact on students?" These questions help teachers reflect on their decision-making and potentially explore new approaches.* From my article: "Using Questioning to Facilitate Reflection and Goal Setting with Teachers"🌱 PERSONAL TIPWhen coaching teachers, replace interrogative "why" questions with more invitational phrasing like "What led you to choose this approach?" or "I'm curious about how you decided on this strategy." Alternatively, ask some questions by making statements, which can be less threatening for some. For example, instead of “What led you to choose this approach?” you could say, “Talk about what led you to choose this approach.” (h/t Regie Routman)Got additional tips for the community on this topic?📢 FOR YOUR TEAM & SCHOOLThis Week’s Quote: Joke for Announcements: Why don't scientists trust atoms? Because they make up everything!Have a great week, -MattP.S. I’d love your feedback on this new project! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit readbyexample.substack.com/subscribe