Four Types of Follow-up Questions

 

 

1) Explore Origin of Idea(s)

 

Examples:

 

Q:  “Where did you get the information that helped you answer the question?”

Q: “What led you to this opinion?

 

Goal : To explore the underlying assumptions of beliefs (that may be held unconsciously).

 

 

2) Examine Support for Idea(s)

 

Examples

 

Q: “Do you think your response is based on fact, or is your response your personal belief?”

Q: “Where could you locate evidence to support your response?” 

Q: “How do you substantiate this response, do you have proof?”

Q: “Is your response one that would be accepted by a good number of your peers?”

Q: “Would someone who is an expert in the area of the question provide a response similar

      to yours?”

 

Goals: To distinguish between fact & opinion, to consider available evidence.

 

 

3) Identify Potential Conflicts with Idea(s)

 

Examples:

 

Q: “What are some counterarguments that people might present to your response?”

Q:  “Why would some people have a different point of view?”

Q: “Under what conditions would you consider changing your response to this question?”

Q: “What additional information would you need to modify your response?”

Q: “How would you counter an opposing response?”

 

Goals: To acknowledge and analyze different viewpoints, to observe any inconsistencies in personal beliefs

 

 

4) Analyze Implications & Consequences

 

Examples:

 

Q: “What are the consequences of this response?”

Q:  What changes would occur if your idea became policy? Who would be impacted

      positively? Would anyone be impacted negatively? Who?

 

Goal: To assess long term effects of beliefs/actions.