Socratic Seminar: Key to Life's Answers Jacqueline Pennington

How does one prepare for a test with no correct answer? There aren't flashcards to flip through, past practice tests to predict similar problems, or a study guide to fill out. How would a test like this even be administered? The answer - a time-defying discussion technique Greek philosopher Socrates developed for his pupils in 399 BC - a Socratic Seminar.

I love Socratic Seminars. Most students groan when they see the usually structured desks placed fluidly into a large circle; I smile with excitement. The ability to talk about materials I learned, not as boringly stated in the textbook but ornamented with my own interpretations and perspectives, tapped into my more creative side from a day filled with STEM courses.

Though traditional assessments reassure students the winning answer was somewhere on the page hidden in plain sight behind one of the open circles, discussions allowed for something standardized tests will never successfully measure: original interpretation. I delved into my pioneering side in high school, joining a vast array of clubs and classes forcing me to discuss with others whether I was an expert or a total novice on the subject. Seminars refined my creativity, propelling me to think beyond the enclosing box...