Asking Stupid Question

In our current class I noticed more students then usual asking questions and prefacing them with "Hey I have a stupid question." Every time they asked a question that I found to be insightful and often times creatively looked at Tech in a way I hadn't before. What stuck out more was their faces as they asked the questions. They were unsure and lacked confidence.

Typically this happens from time to time and I encourage students to stop thinking negatively since all questions have validity. Especially when you are learning. However, every class is different and I felt like this one was starting to develop a negativity view of themselves. That there questions, and themselves even, were stupid. This is especially troublesome when you are learning the skills to start a new career.

So I thought: Attitude reflects leadership. How can I improve this? How can I encourage them and empower them to keep asking questions and not make them feel these negative emotions? My solution for now, outlaw the phrase: "I have a stupid question?" and any of its alternative forms. Also invite questions, re-enforce that questions are the key to learning and growing. Always encourage and welcome them. Treat each question with equal importance.

Feedback from class so far has been great. Sometimes the thing that gets lost in Tech is that its evolving and we are all learning constantly. As a leader its important to remember that, but also encourage it. Encourage questions, they all have value.