What+is+Problem+Solving?

=If we want our students to solve problems, we should begin with= =a clear idea of what it means to solve problems.=



1) Problem solving is an active process that challenges students to use their prior knowledge and new experiences to construct their understanding of concepts. A student friendly definition could be "You need to figure out how to solve a problem yourself if you want to really understand the problem."

2) Problem solving is what you do when you don't know what to do. Problem solving involves mucking about in order to find a solution. The problem solving process would involve several steps:identifying what you are trying to solve, what you know and what strategies you might use to find the solution to the problem. Problem solving involves determining the unknown; forming a plan; carrying through with the plan in order to find a solution, checking to see if the solution makes sense. Problem solving involves using the mathematical processes: reasoning, connecting, reflecting, representing, using tools and strategies and communicating. [Irene] Problem solving is working through a situation to which we do not know the answer with a step by step process. Making what looks like a difficult task easier. (Sharon) I'm not sure that I think problem solving is always a step by step process, especially if problem solving is what you do when you don't know what to do. Problem solving involves employing one or more strategies or approaches in an attempt to determine something you don't think that you know. (Bruce) Problem solving is having a strategy or plan on how to attack a new problem that seems impossible to solve. Using our background knowledge we can start using manipulatives, acting it out, collect data, draw a diagram, and/or using algebra. Once a solution is found it must be returned to the problem and tested for accuracy. (Carol)

Problem solving is reconciling something new with your existing knowledge. Problem solving facing something old in a new way. Problem solving is making connections. (CarolM)

 Click here to go to a page with links to resources on problem solving.