The types, frequency and quality of elementary pupils' questions in an online environment

This study explored the types, frequencies and quality of student questioning based on three kinds of questionstems (detailed-stem, simple-stem, and no-stem). A questioning-supported thinking and learning system (QSTLS) was developed to scaffold stem-based student questioning. One hundred fifth-grade students participated in this study. Students were assigned to three groups: a detailed-stem group, simple-stem group, and no-stem group. Results show that the detailed-stem groups used more types (11) of questions, asked a greater number of questions (472) and asked questions of higher quality than both the simple-stem group and the nostem group. The conclusion of the study is that online questioning is a useful learning strategy, and more specifically that detailed question-stems in particular help students to develop their questioning skills. This study also shows that with the assistance of question-stems, the QSTLS system can provide a student-centered and active learning environment for elementary pupils.