Problem
Solving
As the new millennium approaches, modern society
demands that we think critically, take initiative and responsibility, devise
goals and strategies, and solve problems. For example, the demands of a
changing workplace and complex global society require all American citizens,
not just a fortunate few, to develop higher level thinking and problem-solving
skills, not just basic competency in reading and computation.
Problem solving is used when a problem is encountered.
A problem exists when a goal is unattainable due to barriers and for which
a suitable course of action is not immediately apparent. A problem
is ill-defined and has more than one possible solution.
The development of problem solving skills requires
opportunities to identify and solve various problems and communicate the
logic used to arrive at possible solutions. Successful problem solving
results in the following:
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ability to recognize and understand a problem
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selection of appropriate strategy to solve the problem
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correct application of the selected strategy
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evaluation of results for correctness and reasonableness
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clear and fully presented correct solution. The
solution is stated concisely and directly answers the problem as it was
presented.
When posting a problem solving assignment to the electronic
portfolio, you can reflect on what you learned not only about the problem,
but also the problem solving process.Some possible examples of problem
solving skills you may want to include in your portfolio are as follows:
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In nursing courses, the development of patient care
plans
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In automotive courses, repairing a customer’s car based
on the customer’s description of the condition
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In respiratory courses, the determination of appropriateness
of ordered therapy and then once therapy is administered, deciding
if modifications are necessary
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In math courses, solving real world mathematical problems,
not textbook computation problems
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In science courses, prediction of result(s) of
lab experiment and comparison to actual result(s)
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In humanities, writing, social and behavioral science
courses, the development of possible solutions to community problems
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In all courses, the determination of when to study,
what to study, and how to study
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In student clubs, the planning and implementation of
various activities