Problem Solving (1)

Characteristics of Current Pedagogy: PROBLEM SOLVING Prepared by: Lu You Zhen Sia Soon Huong Wendy Ngu Woei Jiuan

Problem solving A systematic approach to defining the problem (question or situation that presents uncertainty, perplexity or difficulty) and creating a vast number of possible solutions without judging these solutions.

What skills do you use in problem solving? •Making judgement •Analytical skills •Decision making •Collecting information •Planning

Check and evalua te

Identif y the proble m

Problem Monitor Understand it solving Cycle Allocate resourc es

Organiz e the informat

Purpose of Problem Solving • Problem solving activities are designed to achieve three main goals: • Clearly state what is expected of students • Identify how close a student is to meeting the goals • Identify instructional methods best suited to help students meet goals 5

2007

Problem Solving Measures • Two major types of problem solving assessments are used: • Benchmark: these are baseline measures of a student’s knowledge and skills in the curriculum being taught • Usually done 3 times/year

• Progress Monitoring: These are regular measures of a student’s progress toward learning goals • Usually done weekly 6

2007

Why is Regular Assessment Necessary for Problem-Solving? • “If you don’t know where you are going, any road will get you there” (George Harrison) • Only by measuring how close a student is to the learning expectations can teachers know how much instruction is needed • Only by measuring student progress regularly can teachers know if the instruction is working 7

2007

Benefits of teaching through problem solving strategies • Student-centered approach. • Development of Long-Term Knowledge Retention • It encourages greater understanding. • Continuous Engagement • Students find it more enjoyable and satisfying.

• Helping to develop critical thinking skills • Actively engages learners and helps teachers to gain a better understanding of the abilities of the students. • Better communication

•It encourages students to spend more time studying. •It promotes interdisciplinary.

Disadvantages

oRequires more time and takes away study time from other subjects.

oLess content knowledge may be learned. oPotentially Poorer Performance on Tests oTime constraints