The Problem Solving Method Newcomb, Warmbrod, & McCracken (Brian Parr)

Objectives 1. List and explain the steps in the learning process. 2. List and Explain the steps in the problem-solving approach to teaching. 3. Compare and contrast the learning process and the problem-solving approach. 4. Explain what can be accomplished through using this method.

The Learning Process- Dewey 1. Experiencing a provocative situation. 2. Defining the problem. 3. Seeking data and information. 4. Formulating possible solutions. 5. Testing proposed solutions. 6. Evaluating the results.

Problem-solving Approach to Teaching 1. Interest Approach 2. Group objectives 3. Questions to be answered 4. Problem solution 5. Testing solutions through application 6. Evaluation of solutions

Learning Process Compared to Problem-solving Approach Learning Process 1.Experience a provocative solution 2.Define the problem 3.Seeking data 4.Formulating possible solutions 5.Testing proposed solutions 6.Evaluating results Problem-solving 1.Interest Approach 2.Group Objectives 3.Questions to be answered 4.Problem solution 5.Testing solutions through application 6.Evaluation of solution

Interest Approach Same as first step of learning process- experiencing a provocative situation Students must be motivated to learn Motivation is strongest when the students perceive that learning can be useful In this step, the teacher seeks to gain the attention of the student.

Interest Approach Cont. Must create a felt need Must cause students to realize that they do not know enough about the subject to be successful in their field of study Should set the stage for the establishment of group objectives

Interest Approach Techniques Raising perplexing questions Showing specimens or samples (dead animal, broken part) Presenting a short case study Giving a skillful demonstration Showing pictures of success and failure Conducting a provocative role play

Group Objectives Partially accomplishes the “defining the problem” phase of the learning process Students are motivated through their involvement in setting goals and planning learning activities The teacher’s goal is to lead students to see that the subject is worth studying and admit that they need to study it

Group Objectives Cont. The teacher asks lead questions to help the students identify goals that they hope to achieve during the lesson Through these questions and the subsequent discussion the class will develop a list of objectives.

Questions to be Answered This step completes the “defining the problem” step of the learning process When subject matter to be learned possesses meaning, organization, and structure that is clear to the student, learning proceeds more rapidly and is retained longer. Students are motivated when task is possible but not certain

Questions to be Answered Cont. Teacher leads students to develop questions whose solutions will help them meet their objectives. Teacher leads discussion to develop list of questions

Problem Solution Accomplishes steps 3 and 4 of the learning process- seeking data and formulating possible solutions Learning is active rather than passive Students learn what they practice Teacher seeks to assist the class in obtaining, studying, and evaluating facts, concepts, and skills necessary to answer the questions, solve the problems, and develop the conclusions to master the unit of instruction.

Problem Solution Techniques Lecture Discussion Demonstration Field Trips Role Play Resource People Supervised Study Independent Study Experiments

Testing Solutions Through Application Completes the “testing proposed solutions” step of the learning process Supervised practice is very effective Learning is most likely to be used if it is learned in a situation similar to what it will be used in Have students test the theories that they develop during classroom study

Evaluating Solutions Same as final step of learning process- “evaluating results” When students have knowledge of their learning progress, performance will be superior Allows teacher to determine how well students have learned as well as how well the teacher has taught

Learning Process Compared to Problem-solving Approach Learning Process 1.Experience a provocative solution 2.Define the problem 3.Seeking data 4.Formulating possible solutions 5.Testing proposed solutions 6.Evaluating results Problem-solving 1.Interest Approach 2.Group Objectives 3.Questions to be answered 4.Problem solution 5.Testing solutions through application 6.Evaluation of solution