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What is socratic seminar?

Sarah DeGalicia

Created on October 20, 2025

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What is socratic seminar?

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Is this a debate?

NO

The purpose of a debate is to build an argument for your position and disprove or discredit those that argue against you. You try to win. A debate is oppositional. On the other hand, a Socratic seminar is collaborative.

Expectations

What is a socratic Seminar?

The purpose of a Socratic seminar is to build an understanding of ideas, issues, and values reflected in material. This is done through a group discussion format.

You, the students, are responsible for facilitating the group discussion. You will practice how to listen to one another, make meaning, and find common ground while participating in a conversation. You will explore all sides of the topic.

The History

The history of the Socratic seminar dates back to the 5th century BCE and the Greek philosopher Socrates, who used a method of questioning to explore ideas. This ancient method of student-centered, collaborative discussion is still used today in various settings to encourage critical thinking and deep understanding of a topic, with the teacher acting as a facilitator rather than a lecturer.