Problem Solving

Problem Solving

Problem Solving

Much of my life involves solving problems. From major decision making (e.g., purchasing a new car, choosing an academic major), to responding to daily hassles (e.g., having a flat tire) and stressful life events (e.g., unemployment, divorce, or death of significant others), how people solve various life problems has been an important subject of research and practice for me. Formally defined, problem solving is a goal-directed process that includes identifying the problem, generating solutions, selecting the best solution(s) and implementing it (them), and evaluating the outcome(s).

According to my opinion, the initial problem-solving stage is problem recognition or identification. This stage includes identifying a goal, goal-path obstacles, and solution errors. Problems can be classified as presented, which are most easily identifiable; as discovered; or as created, which are the most difficult to identify. The second stage is defining and mentally representing the problem. This stage requires a clear statement of the problem scope and goals. Also, information regarding the current state, goal state, relevant operators, and any restrictions must be cognitively organized for efficient retrieval and application. The third stage involves forming a strategy for solving the problem. Strategies may entail breaking down the problem into elements (analysis) or rearranging and combining elements (synthesis). It is helpful to brainstorm a variety of possible strategies (divergent thinking) and then to decide on one promising strategy (convergent thinking).

Problem solving in the classroom is usually subject-specific, as in mathematics, chemistry, physics, and other science-related subjects. Sufficient information and clues are usually provided, and there is an answer to the problem. However, many students fail to apply and transfer the problem-solving skills learned in special subjects to problems in other subject domains and problems encountered in daily lives. This entry describes Robert Sternberg's triarchic theory of human intelligence and how it can be ...