Final answer:
The Socratic method involves a process of learning through questions and debate, which stimulates critical thinking and facilitates the process of self-discovery. The correct response to the student's question is option b), which indicates learning is directed by a balance of questions and debate.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Socratic method of teaching involves learning directed primarily by a balance of questions and debate. It is a form of cooperative argumentative dialogue between individuals, which uses questioning to stimulate critical thinking and draw out ideas and underlying presumptions. The elements of the Socratic method include engaging in a dialectical process to eliminate hypotheses that lead to contradictions and exploring definitions or logos to characterize general characteristics shared by various instances.
Option b) Learning is directed primarily by a balance of questions and debate, aligns most closely with the Socratic method. This method encourages individuals to critically examine their beliefs and seek truth through a series of analytical, typically open-ended, questions that lead to self-discovery and the strengthening of one's understanding. It directly contrasts with both options a) and d), as the Socratic method does not limit participation to advanced individuals and certainly does not discourage questioning. Option c) Strengthening one's position or understanding through engagement with various perspectives, can be seen as a part of the process, though it isn't as specific to the Socratic method as option b).