Questioning Process

DOE-HDBK-1080-97

Another example of a closed-ended question is:

Example 4.

What indications of a loss of pump prime are available to you at this

control panel?

The examiner can use closed-ended questions to clarify a statement that the trainee makes

in response to an open-ended question. Using a mix of question types should provide the

examiner with enough information to determine whether the trainee has adequate

knowledge.

5.1.5

Questioning Process

Questions should not be asked in a manner which tends to lead the trainee to the answer.

One of the reasons for having the original questions and any planned follow-up questions

written prior to the examination is to help prevent asking leading questions. The examiners

should state the question clearly, as written, and then give the trainee reasonable time to

think and answer. Only one question at a time should be asked. Additional or follow-up

questions should not be asked before the trainee has time to answer the original question.

Additional questions could distract the trainee or could lead the trainee to the answer.

The examiner(s) should encourage the trainee to explain what the trainee knows. For

example, ask the trainee to apply a principle of good watchstanding to determine the

proper action in a specific practical situation. This ensures understanding of the principle

rather than just memorization of the words of the concept.

If a trainee gives an incorrect, partially correct, or unclear answer to a question, the topic

should be probed further to establish the trainee's true level of knowledge and

understanding. Questions should be clarified and restated as needed in response to trainee

requests. The examiner should ensure that restating a question does not change the

original question's intent, or learning objective basis, and does not lead the trainee to the

correct response.