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Problem Solving Method
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Lesson Title
Introduction
 
 
Vocabulary Terms
 
 
Review Questions
 
 
Related Internet Links
 
 

TECHNOLOGY:
-concerned with the phenomenon of the human shaped world.
-when we "do technology" we obtain artifacts and solutions to problems.

The Problem Solving Process
 
There are many strategies that can be used in the learning process. Problem solving requires you to use your ingenuity and investigative abilities.
 
  1. State the Problem What are you trying to do?
  2. Background Information Why is this important?
  3. Propose a Solution What are the assumptions and limitations?
  4. Select a Solution What solution do you like the most?
  5. Test the Solution How well does it solve the problem?
  6. Evaluate the Solution Do you think you can do better?
  7. Conclusion After comparing solutions, what did you find out?

IDEATE

Identify & Define the Problem
Define the Desired Goal
Explore Possible Solutions
Assess the Alternatives for an Optimal Solution
Take Action on the Best Possible Solution
Evaluate the Match of the Desired Goal and the Actual Result
Todd, Activity ACT Manual, pg. 179

 

IDEAL
Identify the problem.
Define and represent the problem.
Explore possible strategies.
Act on the strategies.
Look back and evaluate the effects of your activities.
Bransford & Stein, The Ideal Problem Solver, pg. 12

SCIENTIFIC METHOD

1. State the Problem
2. Gather Information
3. Formulate a Hypothesis
4. Test Hypothesis
5. Record and Analyze Data
6. State Conclusion

TECHNOLOGICAL METHOD
(problem solving/design)
1. Define the Problem
2. List Goal(s)
3. Generate Ideas
4. Select Best Solution
5. Implement Solution (idea)
6. Evaluate Solution & Refine
 
as illustrated by the feedback loop in the problem solving model found the solution to one problem often creates new, anticipated or unanticipated problems in need of solution.