Which type of question is considered ineffective?

When it comes to assessing the effectiveness of questions in a teaching or instructional context, puzzle-type questions can often hinder the learning process. Such questions typically require the learner to solve a riddle or decipher a complex scenario that may not be directly tied to the material being taught. This can lead to confusion or frustration for students, as they might spend more time trying to unravel the puzzle rather than focusing on the key concepts or skills they need to learn.

In contrast, other types of questions—like informational, clarifying, and hypothetical—serve more productive roles in a learning environment. Informational questions help to check for understanding or provide necessary context. Clarifying questions allow students to refine their thoughts or understand complex ideas more deeply. Hypothetical questions can encourage critical thinking by prompting students to apply their knowledge to new or imagined situations, fostering deeper engagement with the subject matter. By prioritizing questions that align directly with educational goals and facilitate clear communication, instructors can enhance learning outcomes effectively.