This questioning technique uses tightly controlled questions to gain information for their investigations. Examples of these types of questions include: 1. Facts: What evidence (data) led you to that conclusion? What happed? 2. Motive: Who has the most to lose from this change? To gain? What is / was your primary objective? 3. Accuracy & Relevance: How does that compare with what you said earlier about X? How much of this can be attributed to X vs. Y?

This questioning technique also uses tightly focused questions to diagnose, but they also allow respondents to set the ‘agenda’ by asking questions and determining the course of conversation. Examples of these types of questions include: 1. Symptoms: What brings you here today? How long? How frequently? 2. Root Cause: Why? Does a change in X affect Y? 3. Treatment Options: How important is it that you achieve X vs. Y? What are the benefits and drawbacks of each option?

This questioning technique uses specific questions to get to a key lesson. This technique frames conversations to help people come to an understanding, not an answer. It uses the Socratic Method of teaching by asking questions. It explores topics, which depends upon more trust, collaboration and openness. Professors use the Socratic Method to stimulate critical thinking and illuminate ideas. The goal is to frame a topic and discussion to help everyone come to an understanding or key lesson. Examples of these types of questions include: 1. Assumptions: What do we know about X? What assumptions do we make? 2. Logic: Can you describe how you came to that conclusion? Does X necessarily imply Y? 3. Interpretation: What if we were to look at this from another angle? What would this mean for various stakeholders?

The goal of this questioning technique is to gain “aha” insights. Therapists use less-controlling questioning techniques. The Therapist doesn’t interrupt if the conversation is yielding helpful insights. This line of questioning is for mature relationships. It requires the most trust of all lines of inquiry and uses the least controlling questions.

These types of questions elicit a thought-provoking answer, not a short yes-or-no answer. Examples include: a. What type of pushback do you expect? b. What are some of your ideas about x, y, z? c. What are the best options available?

These types of questions elicit a yes, no or short factual response. Examples include: a. Have you spoken with other people about the issue? b. Have you had a chance to review the document?

These types of questions help focus a person’s thinking. They are frequently one word or short phrases to prompt focus on a specific area. Examples include: a. How so? b. Tell me more about x, y, z?

Review Criteria

Review Criteria

Criterion 1: Reflection demonstrates the administrator has used the Business Chemistry framework to inform and support communication.

Criterion 2: Reflection demonstrates the administrator has used Courageous Principals communication and questioning techniques to inform and support communication.

Criterion 3: Reflection demonstrates the administrator plans to continue using Business Chemistry and communication and questioning techniques to strengthen future leadership practices.