Applying the Elements of Reasoning to Questioning Within a Discipline
A framework that uses the eight elements of reasoning (purpose, question, information, interpretation, concepts, assumptions, implications, point of view) to generate deeper, more critical questions within a specific academic or professional discipline.
THE IDEA
Applying the Elements of Reasoning to Questioning Within a Discipline
Elder and Paul use the elements of reasoning to examine how a question is framed. Checking each element helps identify an unclear purpose, missing evidence, or an assumption that needs examination.
The Elements
- Purpose: What is the goal of the inquiry?
- Question at Issue: What is the central question being addressed?
- Information: What data, evidence, or experiences are relevant?
- Interpretation/Inference: How is the information interpreted?
- Concepts: What key concepts or theories are used?
- Assumptions: What is taken for granted?
- Implications/Consequences: What are the logical outcomes?
- Point of View: From which perspective is the question asked?
Application
Educators, researchers, and students can use these elements to craft questions that expose hidden biases, clarify goals, and deepen understanding. For example, in philosophy, a question about ethics might examine underlying assumptions and point of view. In psychology, one might consider the implications of a particular research interpretation.
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When to use it
Curriculum design: Structuring course questions around each element to promote critical thinking.
Research: checking a proposed question against each element to identify gaps or unclear assumptions.
Peer review: Evaluating the quality of others' questions by checking for missing elements.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Questioning in a History Class
A history teacher asks: 'What point of view is presented in this primary source? What information is missing? What are the implications of this interpretation? Are there assumptions about the author's context?' This uses the elements to analyze historical narratives.
Research Question Formulation
A psychology researcher designing a study on memory might ask: 'What is the purpose of this study? What assumptions about memory are we making? What is the point of view of the participants? What alternative interpretations could exist?'
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
How can the element of 'assumptions' help you identify blind spots in the questions you ask within your discipline?
Choose a common question in your field. Rewrite it using each of the eight elements of reasoning.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- The Art of Asking Essential Questions Based on Critical Thinking Concepts and Socratic Principles (Linda Elder, Richard Paul)