Usage and Application

Effective problem solving skills require both analytical (logical) and creative thinking.  Analytical thought is used to reasonably select a solution from a list of possible solutions.  Creative thought is used to help the problem solver think "outside the box", in order to develop various solutions to the problem (ITS Tutorial School, 2011). 

It is very important for teachers to encourage, learn, and apply different problem solving strategies. 
Examples of problem-solving strategies include:


1. Algorithms - a step-by-step process to follow in order to solve a well-defined problem.  Algorithms are "useful  with particular problems in a particular content area but are, for the most part, inapplicable to problems in other areas" (Ormrod, 2008, p. 414). Algorithms can be used by themselves, or in combination in order to get the desired effect.  


2. Heuristics -  a basic problem-solving strategy that allows a person to make a quick and efficient decision.  Used when an algorithm is not appropriate or available.  Examples include:  

•  Brainstorming - developing multiple approaches to the problem at hand
• Means-end analysis - dividing a large problem into several small problems, then working on each one individually until the larger problem is solved
• Working backward - working from the goal to the problem state, opposite of means-end analysis. 
• Using visual imagery - visualizing the components of the problem
• Drawing an analogy - relating the problem to a previously experienced problem, allowing insight into the new problem.

 

Marriott, Davies, & Gibson (2009) describe problem solving in four cycling steps:  plan, collect, process, and discuss. 


 
They performed a study that led to an easier, more effective way for school age children to learn statistics, by incorporating problem solving into the curriculum. Problem solving was taught based on the diagram above.  To review this article, click here. 


ITS Tuition School (2011) has a website devoted entirely to problem solving: what is problem solving, the steps to perform in order to achieve problem solving, using a group for problem solving, and assisting with achieving goals with the solved problem.  If interested in the several articles posted on the website, click here.