Which of the following statements supports effective communication in the classroom?

Encouraging questions promotes understanding is a fundamental principle of effective communication in the classroom. When students are encouraged to ask questions, it fosters an interactive learning environment where they can clarify doubts, deepen their understanding, and engage with the material more critically. This practice not only ensures that students feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and uncertainties, but it also signals to them that their contributions are valued. A classroom culture that supports inquiry leads to enhanced comprehension and retention of information, as students are actively involved in their learning process.

The other options do not align with effective communication principles in the classroom. For instance, insisting that students always work independently can create barriers to collaboration and limit peer-to-peer learning, which is crucial for collective understanding. Avoiding feedback from teachers prevents students from receiving essential guidance that can help them improve. Finally, limiting discussions strictly to lectures can restrict student engagement and reduce opportunities for dialogue, further undermining effective communication. Therefore, encouraging questions stands out as a clear method of fostering better communication and understanding among students.