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Problem Solving Definition Handouts

Problem solving is a complex mental process that involves moving from a current state to a desired goal state. The problem-solving process includes understanding the problem, devising a plan, carrying out the plan, and looking back to verify results. Effective problem solving requires the application of various strategies and techniques to reach a solution.

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3 views2 pages

Problem Solving Definition Handouts

Problem solving is a complex mental process that involves moving from a current state to a desired goal state. The problem-solving process includes understanding the problem, devising a plan, carrying out the plan, and looking back to verify results. Effective problem solving requires the application of various strategies and techniques to reach a solution.

Uploaded by

Nguyen Nguyen
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Problem Solving Definition Handout

Problem solving is a mental process and is part of the larger problem process
that includes problem finding and problem solving. Considered the most
complex of all intellectual functions, problem solving has been defined as
higher-order cognitive process that requires the modulation and control of more
routine or fundamental skills. Problem solving occurs when an organism or an
artificial intelligence system needs to move from a given state to a desired goal
state.

Problem Solving Process:

1. UNDERSTANDING THE PROBLEM

*Can you state the problem in your own words?

*What are you trying to find or do?

*What are the unknowns?

*What information do you obtain from the problem?

*What information, if any, is missing or not needed?

2. DEVISING A PLAN

*Look for a pattern.

*Examine related problems, and determine if the same technique can be applied.

* Examine a simpler or special case of the problem to gain insight into the
solution.

*Make a table.

*Make a diagram.

*Write an equation.

*Use guess and check.

*Work backward.

*Identify a sub goal.

3. CARRYING OUT THE PLAN


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* Implement the strategy or strategies in step 2, and perform any
necessary actions or computations.

* Check each step of the plan as you proceed. This may be intuitive checking or
a formal proof of each step.

*Keep an accurate record of your work.

4. LOOKING BACK

*Check the results in the original problem. (In some cases this will require a
proof.)

* Interpret the solution in terms of the original problem. Does your answer
make sense? Is it reasonable?

*Determine whether there is another method of finding the solution.

* If possible, determine other related or more general problems for which the
techniques will work.

Resources:

Billstein, R., Libeskind, S., & Lott, J. (2010). A Problem Solving Approach to
Mathematics for Elementary School Teachers. Boston: Addison-Wesley.

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