Problem solving method
Meaning and Definition of Problem solving method
In a problem solving method, children learn by working on problems. This enables
the students to learn new knowledge by facing the problems to be solved. The
students are expected to observe, understand, analyze, interpret find solutions, and
perform applications that lead to a holistic understanding of the concept. This
method develops scientific process skills. This method helps in developing
brainstorming approach to learning concepts.
The students thinking on problem and their understanding of the science behind it
is based on common sense. It does not start from textual knowledge. Rather it
proceeds from experiencing to gradually forming concepts through books at later
stage. It is a process from practice to theory not vice versa. Knowledge here is not
a goal but a natural out came of working on tasks. Students live in the real world
and like to deal with concrete things where they can touch, feel manipulate things
then the method is useful in igniting the process of science learning
A problem is a task for which Problem–solving may be a purely mental difficulty
or it may be physical and involve manipulation of data. , the person confronting it
wants or needs to find a solution because the person has no readily available
procedure for finding the solution. The person must make an attempt to find a
solution. Problem solving is the act of defining a problem; determining the cause
of the problem; identifying, prioritizing and selecting alternatives for a solution;
and implementing a solution.
Problem-solving method aims at presenting the knowledge to be learnt in the form
of a problem. It begins with a problematic situation and consists of continuous,
meaningful, well-integrated activity. The problems are test to the students in a
natural way and it is ensured that the students are genuinely interested to solve
them.
Problem–solving may be a purely mental difficulty or it may be physical and
involve manipulation of data. Problem-solving is the ability to identify and solve
problems by applying appropriate skills systematically.
Problem-solving is a process—an ongoing activity in which we take what we know
to discover what we don’t know. It involves overcoming obstacles by generating
hypo-theses, testing those predictions, and arriving at satisfactory solutions.
Objectives of Problem-Solving: The specific objectives of problem solving in
science are :
Willingness to try problems and improve their perseverance when solving
problems.
Improve pupils’ self-concepts with respect to the abilities to solve problems.
Make pupils aware of the problem-solving strategies.
Make pupils aware of the value of approaching problems in a systematic
manner.
Make pupils aware that many problems can be solved in more than one way.
Improve pupils’ abilities to select appropriate solution strategies.
Improve pupils’ abilities to implement solution strategies accurately.
Improve pupils’ abilities to get more correct answers to problems
The appreciation of the existence of a problems and a desire to solve it
The accumulation of the facts and data which are pertinent to the problem.
Logical interpretation of the data supported by adequate valid experience.
Tips for effective use of Problem solving method
Ask questions and make suggestions. Ask students to predict ―what would
happen if …‖ or explain why something happened. This will help them to
develop analytical and deductive thinking skills. . Do this by providing positive
reinforcement to let students know when they have mastered a new concept or
skill.
Don’t fear group [Link] can frequently help each other, and talking
about a problem helps them think more critically about the steps needed to
solve the problem.
Help students understand the problem. In order to solve problems, students
need to define the end goal. If you succeed at helping students answer the
questions ―what?‖ and ―why?‖, finding the answer to ―how?‖ will be easier.
Have students identify specific problems, difficulties, or confusions. Don’t
waste time working through problems that students already understand?
If students are unable to articulate their concerns, determine where they
are having trouble. Identify the specific concepts or principles associated with
the problem. Make students articulate their problem solving process. In a one-
on-one tutoring session, ask the student to work his/her problem out loud. This
slows down the thinking process, making it more accurate and allowing you to
access understanding.
Link errors to misconceptions. Use errors as evidence of misconceptions, not
carelessness or random guessing. Make an effort to isolate the misconception
and correct it, then teach students to do this by themselves. We can all learn
from mistakes. Try to communicate that the process is more important than the
answer so that the student learns that it is OK to not have an instant solution.
Model the problem solving process rather than just giving students the
answer. As you work through the problem, consider how a novice might
struggle with the concepts and make your thinking clear .Provide only minimal
assistance and only when needed to overcome obstacles.
Take enough time. Budget enough time for: understanding the problem and
defining the goal, both individually and as a class; dealing with questions from
you and your students; making, finding, and fixing mistakes; and solving entire
problems in a single session.
Teach within a specific context. Teach problem-solving skills in the context in
which they will be used .Use real-life problems in explanations, examples, and
exams. Do not teach problem solving as an independent, abstract skill.
Work as a facilitator. Teacher must keep in mind that if in a child-directed
learning not teacher-directed. He must be alert and active to arouse interest
among students. Must provide democratic atmosphere. Teacher must provide
situation for all students to come formed and contribute towards the success of
the activity.
Advantages of Problem Solving:
Better thinking: ...
Better risk handling: ...
Better communication: ...
Increases understanding: ...
Increased number of solutions: ...
Helps to increase the team's potential: ...
Higher commitment: ...
Reduces the possibility of bias:
Disadvantages of Team Problem Solving:
Increased competition: Most of the time while working in a team a person's individual
efforts can be ignored because of the team. ...
Level of confirmation: ...
Lack of objective guidelines: ...
Time constraints: ...
Unequal participation: ...
Unwillingness to participate: ...
Lack of team spirit: