FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What characterizes a convergent question?

1. It requires extensive research

2. It has a simple, short answer

3. It encourages creative thinking

4. It prompts a lengthy discussion

The correct answer is: It has a simple, short answer

A convergent question is characterized by having a simple, short answer that typically seeks a specific piece of information or a clear, correct response. These types of questions often focus on factual recall or knowledge that can be objectively verified. In a classroom or educational context, convergent questions are designed to direct students toward a specific answer, allowing for clarity and precision in assessment. This is in contrast to divergent questions, which encourage exploration and varied responses, promoting creative thinking and discussion. The other answer choices reflect approaches to questions that do not align with the definition of convergent questions. For example, extensive research and lengthy discussions would indicate a more open-ended or analytical approach, whereas creative thinking is encouraged by divergent questions aiming for broad and imaginative responses.