I find that one of the biggest problems my students have is they are overwhelmed when they start with the "overall picture."
One of my most successful techniques is to have them break the problem down into many smaller parts. When they concentrate on one part at a time and start building the total picture in sections, they are less frustrated, become more focused, and end up with a more logical step-by-step approach to finding a solution to the problem.
Ned
By providing the time that it takes to go through the steps to analyze and solve the problem using critical thinking. Group work also helps them to generate creative ideas.
Larry,
Yes, the foundational knowledge and skills must be accurately mastered if consistent proficiency at higher levels is to be expected. Well stated.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Students have to know the foundation of their subject or they can't solve the problem or make a critical judgement. Their Registry Exam is all about critical thinking and problem solving. I try to repeat this throughout the program. The students are told they need to be really focused from the beginning or they will lose in the end.
Susan,
Yes, this approach provides good support to problem solving. Thank you for sharing your insights.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
We can give students a history of what has worked in the past, well role playing and comming up with different ways they can develop solutions on their own.
Cindy,
Your work with the student on an individual basis, as a unique person, is often enough motivation for them to believe they have value. Your statement "...then we can come up with an action plan." identifies credibility in the plan because they have ownership in a plan that is approved by their current mentor - who cares about them and sees them as a valuable individual. Excellent work on your part.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Maria,
This is a very good recommendation. Organized thought is a critical component of problem solving. Thank you for sharing your insight.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I always ask why do they think they did so poorly on the test and it amazes me they don't know. Here and there it can be a crisis like a death in the family. I suggest where i think they are having problems then they start problem solving it, then we can come up with an action plan.
Have them follow the steps listed on this course (which is very similar to the scientific method). By doing this, students will be able to become more organized with their thoughts.
Sherri,
Excellent. Guided practice is a proven technique. Continued confirmation of successes are powerful reinforcement for the student.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Heather,
Yes, one very important characteristic of a 'safe' learning environment is the capacity to validate the student when errors are produced. Making the exercise a fun adventure, where wrong turns are identified as somehting learned. Very good point. Thanks for sharing.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I think a very important way to support this is by making sure they feel they are in a secure & non-judgemental environment so they know its OK to think through things w/o the fear of being "punished" for making a mistake as they are learning how to solve new problems & challenges in their course work.
Some students need practice at problem solving skills. I find that they will follow instructions step-by-step, but when they are in unknown territory (problem solving) they freeze up.
So, that is why I tell them I am going to put them in unknown territory, then I guide them through the problem solving. Then, the next time they will need less help, and the time after...and so on!! My goal is to see my students become good problem solvers by graduation.
Maria Luisa,
Agreed. Guideing them to get the answer is like teaching them to fish, instead of just giving them the fish.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I concur with Ms. Marivic. Allow student/s to think for themselves and to problem solve instead of giving the answer or solutions to them. Letting them think and solve will make them use their thinking process.
Ernida ,
Yes, by contributing this part of the stategy you can 'prime the pump' for the students. Nice job.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
by explaining pros and cons of situation
Chris,
Yes, freedom to err is a significant component within a supportive learning environment. Very good point.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I think one of the very first things a teacher needs to do to encourage the problem-solving mentality is to make sure students are comfortable in your classroom and are not afraid of appearing "dumb". Being willing to TRY something new or share their process is a major step for some students!
