Presented to:
Dr. UMMARA SAHER
Presented by:
MASHAL FATIMA (2019-1501)
Problem solving is an
instructional method or
technique where by the
teacher and pupils attempt in
a finding a solution.
Students are presented with
problems which requires
them to find either a
scientific or technological
solution.
Problem solving is the act
of defining a problem;
Skinner 1953 defined: determining the cause of
problem solving as the problem; identifying,
“any behavior which, prioritizing, and selecting
through the alternatives for a solution; &
manipulation of implementing a solution.
variables, makes the
appearance of a
solution more
probable”
TYPES OF PROBLEMS
ILL-DEFINED THE WELL-
PROBLEMS DEFINED
are those that PROBLEMS
do not have have specific
clear goals, goals, clearly
solution paths, defined solution
or expected paths, and clear
solution. expected solutions.
SOLVING
STRATEGIES
Problem-Solving Strategies
Name
Method Description Example
Restarting phone, turning
Continue trying different off Wi-Fi, turning off
Trial and error solutions until problem is Bluetooth in order to
solved determine why your phone
is malfunctioning
Instruction manual for
Step-by-step problem-
Algorithm installing new software on
solving formula
your computer
General problem-solving
Heuristic breaking a task into steps
framework
The cognitive approach to problem solving
PROBLEM SPACE THEORY
In 1972, Allen Newell and Herbert
published the book Human Problem Solving, in
which they outlined their problem space
theory of problem solving.
In this theory, people solve problems by
searching in a problem space.
The problem space consists of :
1. The initial (current) state,
2. The goal state,
3. All possible states in between.
PRODUCTIVE AND REPRODUCTIVE PROBLEM SOLVING
The GESTALT approach to problem solving differentiates between:
Reproductive
Productive
Thinking
Thinking
• following a
• insight and
sequence
creativity
known to
produce a
workable
answer
MONKEYS SHOWED “INSIGHT” DURING
PROBLEM-SOLVING ( Kohler 1945)
• Demonstrated productive “new way of
structuring elements showing insight and
creativity”
• Deep useful understanding of the nature of
the problem
THE CANDLE PROBLEM (Dunker, 1945)
• Fix lit candle to wall, with candle,
box of nails & box of matches.
THE TWO-STRING PROBLEM (Maier,
1931)
Subjects in room with 2 strings
hanging from ceiling and set of other
objects (nut, bowl, pliers, sandwich,.
Task is to attach the strings. However,
cannot reach them at same time.
Problem no#1
“Can you connect all of the dots below using
only four straight lines?”
NOVICE
Vs EXPERT
Problem Solver
Backwards Chaining (working
backwards) working back from
the end state until reaching the Forwards Chaining (working
origin state. forwards). Believe that you can
Believe that most problems are solve most problems by
too difficult for them to solve. memorizing only a few central
principles.
After solving problems, review
why the question was important,
asking why the professor gave
the assignment.
PURPOSE
Train the Gain and Give Overcome
students in improve Actively the obstacles
the in the
the act of answer attainment of
reasoning. knowledge objectives.
Think creatively to discover new ideas
Learn to work together and share ideas.
Research before you get in to problems
Make the decision that fits the
situation best
USES
Develop ability to analysis
Real life situation
In future use
In different fields
TEACHER ROLE IN
PROBLEM SOLVING
• The students to define the problem
clearly.
• To analyze the situation in parts.
• Must be alert and active to arouse
interest among students.
• Teacher should help the learner if
they are facing any difficulties.
CONTINUE
• Group the students and allow
each one to share in the task to
be performed .
• To build an outline on the board
• To use diagrams and graphs.
Problem solving places the focus on the student making sense of ideas
about problem.
Problem solving encourages students to believe in their ability to think
creative.
Helps to develop power of expression of the child.
Problem solving develops higher level thinking skills.
The students learn to accept different opinions of their classmates and
thus become tolerant.
DISADVANTAGES
Time constraints
Lack of team spirit
Lack of objective guidelines
Less physical activity
All topics and area can not be covered by this method
• Problem solving is a suitable
approach in teaching.
• It develops in the learners
the ability to recognize
• Analysis, solve and reflect
upon the problematics
difficulties. This approach
improve knowledge and
attitude. So use up all the
problem solving skills you’ve
got to simplify your life.
