The game guide · Curiosity
How to play A Better Question
You find an object whose purpose nobody in the group knows. Which reply starts a useful investigation? Read the scenario and consider three replies. Choose a considerate response without guessing somebody’s private feelings.
Your starting point
You find an object whose purpose nobody in the group knows. Which reply starts a useful investigation?
The rules
Read the scenario and all the possible replies. Choose the response that respects the person’s stated needs and choices. Review the feedback and reflect on the wording.
A helpful approach
Use only the information in the scenario. Look for a response that asks, listens or explains clearly without assuming what another person secretly thinks. Separate what you actually observe from the explanation you are tempted to add before you have evidence.
After the game
What made one response leave more room for the other person’s own choice? What question could you ask about an everyday object that you normally pass without a second thought?
There is no need to turn a small moment into a perfect performance. Play again if you want to explore it, or leave it here and take the thought into your day.
The feeling behind it
Notice, ask, test and look again. You can enjoy not knowing something yet without racing to sound certain.
A museum learning approach inspires inquiry. It is an educational practice, not a national personality trait.
Read our curiosity story, inspired by Object-based learning in Smithsonian educational practice, United States. The Smithsonian Learning Lab: Object-Based Learning provides the source context.
Share the invitation
I found a question you might enjoy exploring. Try A Better Question with me, if you fancy a little curiosity today.
If someone comes to mind, send them a game they might enjoy. Add your own words, let them choose whether to play, and keep private details out of a public link.