What is the Problem-Solving Approach?
Key Questions:
1. What is problem solving?Today, problem solving includes a complex set of cognitive, behavioral, and attitudinal components. In 1983, Mayer defined problem solving as a multiple step process where the problem solver must find relationships between past experiences (schema) and the problem at hand and then act upon a solution.
Mayer suggested three characteristics of problem solving:
1) Problem solving is cognitive but is inferred from behavior.
2) Problem solving results in behavior that leads to a solution.
3) Problem solving is a process that involves manipulation of or operations on previous knowledge (Funkhouser and Dennis, 1992).
2. How is problem solving related to project based?
In order for students to accomplish projects used in project based learning, they are require to utilize higher order thinking as well as problem-solving. In my classroom at Boonsboro, I will be conducting a large animal science unit which will include a cattle diseases research project. This project will be based upon open-ended questions that students are able to think through and come up with conclusion. For this project, students will be working in groups, however, projects can also be individual tasks. Students are required to use critical thinking and problem solving to come up with the topics and information that they would like to include in this project.
References:
Kirkley, J. (2003). Principles for teaching problem solving. Retrieved from http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.117.8503&rep=rep1&type=pdf Note: Principles to Teach Problem Solving (Canvas 16 pages
Larmer, J. & Mergendoller, J.R. (2010). The main course, not dessert: How are students reaching 21st century goals? With 21st century project based learning. Retrieved from http://bie.org/object/document/main_course_not_dessert
Larmer, J. & Mergendoller, J.R. (2010). 8 essentials for project-based learning. Retrieved from http://www.sbcss.k12.ca.us/attachments/article/1058/8_Essentials_article_small_file_size_Oct2012v ersion.pdf
Phipps, L.J., Osborn, E.W., Dyer, J.E., & Ball, A.L. (2008) Handbook on agricultural education in public schools, 1st Edition. Boston, MA: Cengage Learning. Note: Chapter 15 – Problem Solving
Kayla, thank you for including an example of how you plan to use PBL in the spring. However, your post needs more detail and personal connections/reflections, as well as linkages to other content.
ReplyDeleteKayla, all I have to say is pbl, Pbl, PBL!!!! I can't recommend it enough! Higher-order thinking, authentic learning, collaboration, real-world scenarios! It has everything! #outwiththeold I'd be happy to help you design quality PBL lessons for your student teaching internship.
ReplyDeleteKayla, great use of visuals and organization of material. What are some of your personal experiences with PBL, or examples of what you might include in your student teaching?
ReplyDelete