Enhancing University Students' Questioning Techniques in Dialogic and Argumentative Practices

This study explores the questioning techniques employed by Higher Education Institution (HEI) students in simulated scenarios following their participation in a training course, as well as their perspectives on the role of questioning in fostering a culture of inquiry and continuous improvement in schools. A mixed-methods approach was used, involving 17 participants enrolled in the Educational Studies program at a private university in the Republic of Cyprus. The results indicate that participants employ diverse questioning techniques and view questioning as essential for fostering critical thinking, collaboration and argumentation. Additionally, they recognize its role in promoting dialogic practices, reflective thinking and open communication, despite the identified challenges associated with its use. This study significantly contributes to the field of higher education by emphasizing the need to integrate such strategies into initial teacher education. It offers practical recommendations for embedding these strategies in university programs, thereby supporting future educators in enhancing their dialogic and argumentative skills.