What is the best way to elicit detailed responses from non-native English speakers?

The most effective way to elicit detailed responses from non-native English speakers is by asking open-ended questions. Open-ended questions encourage the speaker to express themselves in a more elaborate manner, giving them the opportunity to share their thoughts, experiences, and opinions in a way that “yes” or “no” questions do not allow. This approach fosters a conversational environment where non-native speakers may feel more comfortable elaborating on their answers, which can lead to richer dialogue and better understanding of their perspectives.

In contrast, seeking "yes" or "no" answers restricts responses to the most basic level, providing limited information and failing to engage the speaker in a meaningful conversation. Similarly, appearing unenthusiastic about the conversation can discourage individuals from sharing more, as it may signal a lack of interest in their input. While inquiring about speakers' interests could potentially spark conversation, it is not as direct a method for encouraging detailed engagement as open-ended questions, which inherently require more substantive responses.