Access keys
Search Skip navigation
Problem Solving
Why teach Problem Solving?
The aim of the Problem Solving unit is to encourage students to develop
a systematic approach to tackling problems and to be able to reflect on
their approach. This process should involve learning to improve problem-solving
skills for the future. This requires the transfer of skills, knowledge
and experience gained to new problems. This transferability is a vital
aspect of the learning process, and is what makes all of the wider key
skills units so valuable.
The teaching of a systematic approach must be linked to developing the
interpersonal skills and personal qualities required. While not every
student will become a great problem solver, skills can be improved so
that a logical and rational approach is taken which will stand them in
good stead whatever the situation.
Other approaches to Problem Solving are usually less than helpful in
terms of the process and the outcome, being unlikely to lead to success.
For example the 'ostrich approach', where the problem is ignored in the
hope that it will go away, is rarely effective and often leads to a worsening
situation. This would be true where the problem involves producing several
pieces of coursework for set deadlines over a period of time.
Another often used approach is to try the first solution thought of,
without analysing the consequences or considering the relevant factors.
One example where this approach would be disastrous is managing a personal
budget to avoid being in debt with a fixed, limited income.
As we are all aware, problem solving is very much a part of everyday
life, at work, in school or college and in our personal lives. It is one
of the most valuable skills we can teach young people, a view held by
both employers and universities admissions tutors.
Examples of Problem Solving opportunities
Education
Problem Solving skills are essential when engaged in a wide range of
activities in GCSE, AS/A2 or vocational programmes, including:
- working on science or design-related investigations into systems
- designing items and products for art, music or design
- developing IT procedures
- identifying and resolving faults in vehicles.
Enrichment activities
Curriculum enrichment activities provide excellent Problem Solving opportunities.
Examples could include:
- raising money for charity
- planning a sale
- identifying the most effective way to publicise a Young Enterprise
company.
Employment
A huge variety of problems are encountered in the workplace, including:
- streamlining systems and procedures to save money
- designing a piece of machinery
- resolving IT faults
- designing a questionnaire to survey customer satisfaction to improve
services.
Everyday situations
On a personal level, it may be possible to use examples such as:
- personal finance budgeting
- giving up smoking.
Note, however, that sensitive or emotional issues, perhaps involving
personal relationships, are inappropriate for the purposes of the specifications.
The ability to adopt an approach to solving problems which is logical,
rational and considered is helpful in all life situations encountered.
Back to Teaching and Learning
Back to Problem Solving
Summary of this section