Questions Elevate the Mundane

Here's a good question to keep in mind:

What question could I ask that could elevate this conversation above the mundane? (xix).

This seems especially important for online classes that rely heavily on discussion boards. I know there's a balancing act here. An instructor doesn't want to get too involved in the discussion boards -- students need to have some space to speak for themselves -- but we must know when it's appropriate for us to step in.

And offer the kind of question that no other keeps the discussion moving forward, but does so in such a way that "elevates the mundane."

Ideas Midwife

In Michael Gelb's introduction to Socrates' Way, he writes: "Socrates refused to be recognized as a teacher.... Instead, he asked to be seen as a 'midwife of ideas'" (xiv).

What a lovely expression that is.

How do you see yourself? Have you ever considered yourself to be an ideas midwife? How does that "role" change the way you view what you do??

Socrates' Way -- Spring 09 Book

Greetings, Booklovers.

Do you still love books? If so, I hope you will join us as we read Socrates' Way: Seven Keys to Using the Mind to the Utmost.

If you're interested in using your mind to the utmost (what fun!), I will be happy to reserve a copy for you; reading will commence in mid-February, but I will start posting my thoughts forthwith.

(Sponsored by the same people that brought you How to Think Like Leonardo da Vinci.)