As educators, the biggest hurdle to learners developing presentation skills is the fear of being interrogated when it comes time to ask questions. We can help by structuring questions in such a way as to minimise aggressive or confronting questions. Our prefered method is the Like+ model. In this model, questions are structured as either like, like+learn, or like+lead. You’ll quickly notice that these all start with like.
Like
This means that before asking any question the learners must begin by highlighting something that they like. In this way the presented has something to lock onto that is positive. This helps to minimise spiralling. In addition, it sets up the questioner with the standard that we are here to support each other and be encouraging.
The questioner can then stop it there, which is fine. Especially in the early years having learners build these skills with support is integral to them later having the confidence to answer questions effectively. If we set up questions as a pointy topic it’s only going to build a fear of public speaking.
Like+Learn
If the questioner wants to know something about the idea or content presented they can follow the like with a question to learn more about something that was discussed. For example, if the presenter is talking about their new bike a question might be “I really liked how much fun you had on your bike, what colour is it?”. This way the questions are set to build up the presenter by giving them the opportunity to further build on their presentation rather than looking for holes to tear them apart. It is also a good point for the questioner to get more information about what has been completed, or why decisions were made.
Like+Lead
The other option for a questioner is to follow their like with a question about the future of the idea, leading the presenter by presenting their own idea. This gives the presenter an opportunity to hypothesise or discuss the next stages. It’s also a way for the questioner to propose their own next steps. This can assist most where learners are developing a reflective piece afterwards, or working further on the project.
Why Not Like+Learn+Lead ?
This is the most common question I get about this technique and the answer lies in the reason we use structured questioning. If we want to support learners in developing their presentation skills they need to have ownership of their efforts. If the end of their presentation drags out with the questioners and a questioner goes off with too many questions they will feel like it’s being hijacked and lose ownership.
Hopefully, this helps you in your learning environment. If you have any further suggestions or questions feel free to comment below or contact us.