7 steps of the SCHOLASTIC method

The steps of the scholastic method are the lectio, quaestio, disputatio, dictatio, repetitio, summatio and quaestiones disputatae. Below we review with you everything you need to know about this teaching method.

The scholastic method is a didactic method used by European medieval schools. The bases for teaching and learning for the scholastics were argumentation and debate. In this lesson of unPROFESOR.com we tell you what are the steps of the scholastic method and what each of them consists of and what were the contributions of this learning method.

The scholastic method focuses on the development of critical thinking and the ability to argue and debate. This method was widely used in medieval schools and had a significant impact on the development of philosophy and theology of the time.

This methodology follows a rigorous process that includes detailed and careful reading of texts, the raising of critical and deep questions about them, as well as the development of debates. The teacher was in charge of directing the entire process and summarizing everything in a series of conclusions obtained thanks to debate and argumentation as a way of consolidating the learning of the students. They also wrote their own questions or problems to be discussed in a group and thus foster in them the ability to argue effectively.

This teaching instrument It reached its maximum development between the 12th and 13th centuries.. The most important steps of the scholastic method are the following.

lectio

In this first step, the teacher proceeded to read the texts. Thus, in the arts and philosophy faculties texts of Aristotle's works were read, while in the of theology proceeded to the reading of the Bible and works of those considered as Fathers of the Church. On the other hand, in the faculties of law the reading of imperial decrees and laws was carried out and in the medicine ones texts by Avicenna and Averroes, philosophers, physicians and jurists who became two of the foremost figures in western medieval thought for their great erudition and knowledge of various religions and cultures.

quaestio

After reading, we proceed to ask questions and doubts about the text or texts that have just been read. These questions are often asked by students.

dispute

It is another of the steps of the scholastic method. A debate begins on all the issues raised by the students and, together with the teacher, they proceed to present arguments for or against the issue raised.

dictation

The teacher provides an answer to the question or questions posed and dictates it to the students. The answer is made using logical arguments and reasoning.

repetition

We proceed to carry out a process of reading, asking questions and a debate with new topics or texts.

summary

The teacher makes a summary with the main lessons and conclusions that can be drawn from the entire process of argumentation and debate.

Questions disputed

Students write and present problems or issues that they consider can be discussed and resolved in class.

These academic debates They could be of two kinds:

• the ordinary Disputed Matter, a debate carried out two or three times a week, on a regular basis, and in which a predetermined topic was debated to which a final answer must be provided.
• The extraordinary matter, without agenda, and developed by one of the scholastics in public.

Now that we know the steps of the scholastic method, we are going to get to know this philosophical method better. comes from the scholastic school and played an important role in the construction of the academic discourse of Western thought during the Middle Ages, also contributing a series of elements such as:

• gave a rigid scheme necessary to put together a logical and coherent discourse that could withstand the criticisms and rebuttals made by third parties.
• promoted the creativity and independent thinking on students by encouraging them to raise their own questions and problems.
• He helped the students develop intellectual skills that could be applied in any field of study.
• He encouraged the students to actively participate in the educational process, allowing them to understand the issues in a deeper way through debate and discussion.
• The passivity of the students in the face of information and knowledge was avoided, challenging them to think critically and always look for strength in their responses and criticism.
• HE promoted rigor as a learning and knowledge tool, in addition to autonomous learning, critical reflection and dialogue.

Here we leave you to main representatives of the scholastic.