Ask a Stupid Question Day is an informal holiday that is celebrated in some American schools on the 28 September (or on the last school day of September when 28 September falls on the weekend). The holiday dates back to the 1980s.
It was created by a group of teachers to encourage children to ask more questions in the classroom. The problem is that children often fear that their question is stupid and hold back because they are afraid of being ridiculed by classmates. But asking questions is an integral part of the educational process and an important source of feedback for teachers.
Ask a Stupid Question Day is an opportunity for shy children to speak up and ask any question they were afraid to ask, no matter how silly and irrelevant it may seem. This day aims not only to encourage students to be more inquisitive, but to create a positive classroom environment where children are not afraid of being laughed at. Some schools outside the United States have started to celebrate Ask a Stupid Question Day, too.
I really like this idea. I like children being encouraged to be curious but I also like the double meaning that there really are no stupid questions. If you’ve got a question, nine times out of ten, someone else will have that question too.
When I work with my clients, part of my role is to explain complex legal ideas into more straightforward language. I also insist that if there are questions, they have to asked – no matter how daft someone things they are. If the questions are not asked, then I will not know if more explanation is needed.
Three cheers for Ask A Stupid Question Day