This module can be used as a nice ‘icebreaker’ and also illustrates the benefit of appropriate questioning.

I actually only used this with me as the person being questioned and two people posing questions. I then facilitated a discussion on the types of questions asked and the benefits and drawbacks of each type.

It prompted a very useful session on questioning skills and really encouraged the participants to consider how best to use questions in different circumstances. We were then able to list examples of the ‘best’ questions to ask in different scenarios.

Again the module is useful because it highlights the good and less good without people having to share what they currently do and because the questions asked are not work related it is easy to highlight the benefits of using different styles of question without getting into detailed discussion about the wording of a specific question.

I used this exercise on a Communication skills day with predominantly home care workers in order to demonstrate the effectiveness of 'open'questions over 'closed' questions. The group quickly grasped what was required and I ran the exercise according to the instructions. They grasped what was required quickly and were able to draw their own conclusions. Several commented on how easy it was to change their questionning style with some thought and that they would remember the point of the exercise when working with their clients. A plentiful supply of chocolate given for good open questions helped I think!