What is described as open-ended inquiry?

Open-ended inquiry refers to questions that engage individuals in a deeper dialogue, encouraging them to think critically and express their thoughts in a more narrative form. Questions that provoke dialogue typically begin with "how" or "why" as they invite a range of responses rather than a simple yes or no answer. This method fosters an explorative environment where participants feel safe to share their opinions, feelings, and experiences in depth.

In contrast, questions that can be answered with a single word would not facilitate this type of conversation, as they limit responses and do not encourage further elaboration. Similarly, questions that do not require any explanation or that maintain a rigid structure do not promote the open, reflective discussion that characterizes open-ended inquiry. The essence of open-ended questions lies in their ability to elicit longer, more thoughtful answers that can lead to a richer understanding of the subject at hand.