Problem Solving Process and Approach
Problem Solving Process and Approach
AND APPROACH
DEFINITION
The problem solving is a process of
overcoming di culties that appear to
interfere with the a ainment of goal.
(SKINNER)
The problem solving is a systematic
approach to the solution or alleviation of
problems characterised by sequential
execution of the following observation
through action process.
APPROACHES
• INDUCTIVEAPPROACH
It is the process of developing generalization from speci c observations
Example: Developing a New Material for ConstructionSpecific Observations: An engineer observes that a particular type of composite material,
when tested under varying environmental conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity), exhibits excellent strength and durability. They also notice that
this material has a lower environmental impact during production.
Pat tern Identification: The engineer notices a consistent pat tern in the material's performance—it's particularly resilient in extreme temperatures
and has a longer lifespan compared to traditional materials.
Generalization: Based on these observations, the engineer generalizes that this composite material could be a superior alternative for
construction in harsh climates. They propose that this material could be used broadly in civil engineering projects where durability and
environmental sustainability are critical.
• DEDUCTIVEAPPROACH
It is the process of developing speci c predictions from general principles
Example: Designing a Bridge
General Principle: The engineer starts with established principles of physics and structural engineering, such as the principles of load distribution,
material strength, and safety factors in bridge design.
Speci c Predictions: Based on these principles, the engineer predicts that using a speci c type of steel with a particular truss design will support
the expected load while minimizing material use and cost.
Application: The engineer applies these predictions to create detailed specifications for the bridge, ensuring that the design will meet safety
standards, cost e ciency, and performance criteria.
PROBLEM
DEFINITION
EVALUATIO PROBLEM
N AND ANALYSIS
REVISION
PROBLEM
SOLVING
PROCESS
SELECTING
BEST GENERATIN
SOLUTION G PROBLEM
AND SOLUTIONS
IMPLEMENT
ATION
ANALYSING
THE
SOLUTION
1 ) PROBLEM DEFINITION:
The normal process for solving a problem
initially involves de ning the problem that
is to be solved. In this rst stage there is a
need to write down what exactly the
problem entails, which helps to identify
the real problem that is under study and
needs an immediate solution.
This is considered as most essential step
of the problem-solving process
2)PROBLEMANALYSIS:
• Analyse how the problem a ects the researcher and
his or her Current situation and the other people
involved in the situation.
• The analysis helps in understanding the source of the
problem and how it a ects the current developments
and the researcher’s environment.
• Itis often good to recon rm, if the initial problem
def inition is still valid.
3) GENERATING POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS:
•Focusmust be on identifying and
generating all possible
solutions for a problem.
Each potential
idea for
solutio
n of a problem must be considered
4) ANALYSING THE SOLUTIONS
Various factors about each of the
potential solutions are investigated,
wherein all the positive and negative
aspects of each solution are analysed.
5) SELECTINGTHE BESTSOLUTIONAND
IMPLEMENTATION
•Best solution is selected based on the
careful judgement, which is supposed
to solve the problem swiftly and
smoothly.
•The nal step of the problem-solving
process is to practically solve the
problem by implementing the selected
solution
6) EVALUATION AND REVISION
Evaluation is made to judge the
ef fectiveness of the solution in resolving
the problem. This stage also helps to
rede ne the problem and revise the
problem-solving process In case the
initial solution fails to manage the
problem ef fectively.
PROBLEM SOLVING SKILLS
THAN
K YO