Convergent and Divergent Questions

 

First, what is the difference between a convergent question and a divergent question?

A convergent question has a specific answer.  Although the answer could be ‘yes’ or ‘no’, any question that requires an answer that could be considered right or wrong is a convergent question.  A convergent question is often logic driven.  On the other hand, a divergent question is open-ended.  A divergent question may also be considered right or wrong, but the answer is often open to interpretation by the inquirer.  A divergent question is often creativity driven.

What are some of the ways that convergent and divergent questions are best? 

Since a convergent question often lends itself to logic, there are many reasons why this type of question is best applied to math or science.  An example of a convergent question may be, “what is 2+2?” or “in what time zone is the state of Iowa”? It is important to note that many multiple-choice questions with one answer are convergent in nature.

Since a divergent question often lends itself to creativity, there are many reasons why this type of question is best used for provoking the imagination.  An example of a divergent question may be, “Why do you think one side of a ‘V’ of flying birds is longer than the other side”?  While this question can be asked convergently because there is a scientific explanation, asking this question in a divergent manner inspires someone to contemplate.

So, why is it important to ask both convergent and divergent questions when lesson planning?

The number one reason I believe asking both types of questions when lesson planning is because offering both types of questions facilitates a way for students to discover their own learning styles.  In fact, using both styles of questions in a lesson plan will allow an instructor to differentiate lessons to the different learning styles and thinking.

This is just a short synopsis on the use of convergent and divergent questions for the purposes of this blog.  If you would like to know more, check out the links below.

(PDF) Teaching and Learning of Divergent & Convergent Thinking Skills using DCT (researchgate.net)

Convergent vs Divergent Questions - YouTube

Convergent Thinking Versus Divergent Thinking - YouTube