Broader issue problems
I found this module difficult to apply to my students. They need to be more precise with their problem solving and often don't have the luxury of time to "work out" a problem. My students are in an Operating Room where quick thinking is essential. I need them to solve these problems sometimes in a split second.
Alex,
Good analysis of how problem solving skills are developed over time. Experience and learning from mistakes helps to expand the expertise of students to the point they have an understanding of how to approach problems and come up with solutions.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Unbalanced skill in critical thinking or speed will equalize over time.
Students who make a lot of mistakes at the beginning of a program unwittingly help their peers in the learning process. Since their overall pace is quicker, repetition of using tools or concepts increases. As long as the students are on the right track, I'll let them make mistakes. Because of a small class size, mistakes are learning opportunities for all.
Students who spend a lot of time reflecting and practice steps in critical thinking often loose out on the benefits of repetition since solutions or success is achieved with fewer trials. In order to promote speed, advanced problems are introduced to both parties, but with definite time constraints. By this time, everyone is basically at the same level.
Ronald,
Absolutely correct. Instinct for certain situations usually comes with broad and deep experience. Very good. Thank you.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Sometimes all situations don't lend themselves to a lengthy process of analyzing and reflection to formulate a correct solution.
Applied knowledge and instinct have to suffice from time to time.
Dianne,
You are so very correct. Sequencing the learning of critical thinking skills in the curriculum is often an overlooked, but 'critical' (pun intended), part of the instructional design strategy.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
A balance of logical thinking and speed is always ideal. I feel that is why logical thinking should really be pushed for development before they are put in a situation where speed is so critical. If they can't think critically, speed won't matter if they do the wrong action.
Diane,
Point well taken. A balanced approach with a focus on the circumstances to indicate whether indepth analysis or quick assessment is most appropriate. Good post.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I agree, I have encountered the same problem. I feel that being able to be a quick thinker is sometimes even more important than spending excessive time on an overly logial conclusion. Over thinking rarely works!
Krystal,
Exactly right. Practice, experience and building knowledge on top of experience. This is a sure way to improve. Good post.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I think that, when practiced often enough, this process can become much faster and streamlined. I think as one gains expertise in a field, one recognizes problems as issues that have been seen and solved before, so previous knowledge can be applied.
Ashley ,
Very good point. This is where the problem-solving practice must be provided before the authentic application. As many instructors indicate, multiple case scenarios are used in group and individual activities to establish and develop this skill to a minimum level of competency before real-life application. Thank you for your contribution.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
