The Discussion Book

Chapter 19

Question Brainstorm

Loosely based on the question formulation technique developed by Rothstein and Santana (2011), a small group addresses a focus statement by brainstorming as many questions as possible.

Purposes

• To give participants practice in developing different kinds of questions
• To develop questions that provide a basis for in-depth study
• To recognize what kinds of questions lead to richer discussion

How It Works

• In small groups, participants are presented with a focus statement. Examples are “A learning organization cannot be fully realized without a strong commitment to unfettered discussion” and “Teams that regularly practice discussion are likely to have members who feel empowered.”
• Groups brainstorm as many questions ...