Educational and Psychological Perspectives on the Use of Computers to Enhance Problem Solving Skills Anita G. Wells The University of Memphis Fethi A. Inan The University of Memphis

What are Problems = ?

Kinds of Problem Logical Algorithmic Story Rule using Decision making Troubleshooting Diagnosis-solution Case analysis Design Dilemmas Jonassen, Howland, Moore, Marra (2003)

Attributes of problem Jonassen (2004)

Problem solving Steps Identify Problem Devise strategies Act on strategies Understand Problem Evaluate Solution AnalysisSynthesis + ApplicationEvaluation ≈ Forcier (1995).

Barriers of problem solving Limitation of human judgment ability – Functional Fixedness and Response Set – Confirmation Bias – Availability heuristic – Framing effect Limitation of human cognitive resources Individual differences Solution result in a problem

Solutions Cause New Problems ProblemApplied SolutionConsequences Control agricultural pests Usage of DDT due to its reasonable cost, effectiveness, persistence, and versatility ( )  Increased insect resistance  Development of more effective alternative pesticides  Adverse environmental side effects

Example: Functional fixedness How would you mount the candle on a bulletin board using these materials ?

Example: Barriers of problem solving What is more common: death by homicide or death by stroke ? Only citrus fruits prevent scurvy! Ground beef has 25 % fat vs. 75 % lean

Problem solving and computers StepsSoftwareWhen and how to use Understand & Identify Problem Internet Browser Spreadsheet Communications 1. Collect information 2. Organize & Analyze data 3. Brainstorming Devise strategiesConcept mapping Planning tools Communications 1. Integrate information into meaningful connections 2. Set time schedule 3. Get expert opinion Act on SolutionAuthoring tools Presentations 1. Create and produce Evaluate SolutionSpreadsheets Database Communications 1. Redefine the problem 2. Get reflections Lowther & Morrison (2003)

Design for problem solving Problem based learning Anchored instruction Games, simulations, and microworld Discovery learning Collaborative learning

References Forcier, R. C. (1995). Computer As a Productivity Tool in Education. Merril. Jonassen, D. (2004) Toward a Meta-Theory of Problem Solving. Presents a framework for characterizing different types of problem jonassen/problems.htm Jonassen, D. H, Howland, J., Moore, j., Marra, R. M. (2003). Learning to solve problems with technology: A constructivist perspective. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education. Lowther, D. L.,& Morrison, G. R. (2003). Integrating computer into the problem-solving process. New Directions for Teaching and Learning 95(2003),