Problem solving method

Problem Solving Method in Education 

The Problem Solving Method in education is a student centered approach where learners are tasked with solving a specific problem.

The method is rooted in active learning and encourages students to use critical thinking, creativity, and inquiry to work through challenges, often with real world relevance.

Instead of simply receiving information from a teacher, students engage directly with problems, make decisions, and learn by doing.

This method helps students develop deeper conceptual understanding, as it forces them to apply their knowledge to find solutions.

It also promotes skills such as analytical thinking, persistence, and collaboration

Principles of the Problem Solving Method

1.                  Active Learning      

Students are actively involved in identifying and solving problems, rather than passively receiving information from the teacher.

2.                  Critical Thinking and Inquiry      

Problem solving encourages students to think critically, ask questions, and analyze situations from multiple perspectives.

3.                  Real World Context      

Problems are often drawn from real life scenarios, making the learning process relevant and engaging. This helps students see the application of their knowledge beyond the classroom.

4.                  Student Autonomy      

Students have the freedom to explore different approaches to solving the problem, promoting independence and ownership of the learning process.

5.                  Collaboration      

In many cases, problem solving involves group work where students collaborate to share ideas, discuss strategies, and combine their skills to find a solution.

6.                  Interactive Process      

Problem solving is often an iterative process, requiring students to test hypotheses, reflect on outcomes, adjust their strategies, and refine solutions.

7.                  Creativity and Innovation      

The method encourages students to think outside the box, try new approaches, and develop innovative solutions.

Steps in the Problem Solving Method

1.      Identify the Problem    

     The first step is to clearly define the problem.

It’s important to understand what needs to be solved before jumping to conclusions. In some cases, the problem might be presented by the teacher, or students might be tasked with identifying a problem themselves.

2.      Understand the Problem    

     Once the problem is identified, students need to gather relevant information, analyze the situation, and understand all aspects of the problem. This might involve research, brainstorming, or discussing the problem with peers or teachers.

3.      Generate Possible Solutions    

     In this step, students brainstorm multiple possible solutions or approaches to the problem. It encourages divergent thinking, where students think of many possible solutions, not just the first or most obvious one.

4.      Evaluate the Options    

     Students assess the potential solutions they’ve generated. They weigh the pros and cons of each option, consider feasibility, and anticipate possible challenges or outcomes. This step involves critical evaluation and judgment.  

5.      Choose the Best Solution    

     After evaluating the options, students select the most viable solution. This decision making process can be guided by criteria like effectiveness, practicality, cost, or any other relevant factor.

6.      Implement the Solution    

     Students put their chosen solution into action. This is the stage where planning and execution occur. It may involve creating a product, conducting an experiment, or performing a task.

7.      Evaluate and Reflect    

     After implementation, students reflect on the outcome. Did the solution work? What went well, and what didn’t? This reflection helps them learn from the process and refine their problem solving skills.

8.      Revise and Improve    

     If the solution was not effective or if further improvement is possible, students revisit the problem solving process. They may adjust their approach and try again, reinforcing the interactive nature of problem solving.

Advantages of the Problem Solving Method 

1.      Develops Critical Thinking Skills    

     By engaging in the process of analyzing problems, generating solutions, and evaluating options, students develop their critical thinking and reasoning skills. They learn to approach problems methodically and logically.

2.      Promotes Deep Understanding    

     Students don't just memorize information; they apply knowledge in a meaningful way, which helps them understand concepts at a deeper level.

3.      Enhances Decision Making Abilities    

     Through the problem solving process, students practice making decisions and learning from the outcomes. This helps them become more confident and effective decision makers in both academic and real life situations.

4.      Fosters Creativity and Innovation    

     Because problem solving often requires finding new or unconventional solutions, students are encouraged to think creatively and consider multiple perspectives and approaches.

5.      Encourages Collaboration    

     Many problem solving activities are done in groups, fostering collaboration, communication, and teamwork. Students learn to listen to others, negotiate, and synthesize ideas.

6.      Real World Application    

     Problems used in this method are often realistic and connected to real world scenarios, making the learning experience more engaging and relevant. This approach prepares students for real life challenges they may encounter outside the classroom.

7.      Builds Confidence    

     As students go through the problem solving process and succeed in finding solutions, they gain confidence in their abilities to tackle challenges, which can positively impact their overall learning attitude.

8.      Increases Motivation    

     The method’s hands on, engaging nature tends to increase student motivation. Solving real problems and seeing the direct results of their work often makes learning feel more rewarding.

9.      Improves Persistence and Resilience    

     The iterative process of testing, evaluating, and revising teaches students to persist even when their first attempt doesn’t succeed. This fosters resilience and a growth mindset.

future life challenges.