Critical thinking and UNDERSTANDING THE APPROACH TOWARDS problem solving
Objectives
The purpose of this ACTIVITY is to acquire critical thinking and understanding towards problem solving approach and techniques related to it by:
Activating background knowledge and attitudes'
Linking the subject knowledge and information including prior experiences'
Reflecting on the techniques involved and application of new concepts
Identifying any other possible approach or concepts to the given situation
Why do we need to develop Critical thinking and problem solving in our students?
Connect the topic of study to the real world and to other things they have studied.
Set purpose for learning.
Develop meaning from new information they read or hear.
Link new information to their prior experiences
Search for answers to their own questions or to satisfy their curiosity
Monitor and sustain one's own learning.
Organize and remember important information ,ideas and relationships
Use new information to solve problems
Evaluate new information
Re-examine their thinking and incorporate new ideas
What are the steps of problem solving?
Recognize there is a question, issue ,or problem to be solved.
Define or redefine the problem ,look at its features from multiple angles; generate questions to clarify the problem .
Understand the solutions provided in the situation
Identify the given solutions in the light of concept/principle that is applied.
Analyze given solution and its effectiveness or feasibility with the given situation.
Consider alternative solutions or generate creative possibilities related to the given problem.
The Assignment is divided into 3 parts: Problem-Solution Map, Inserts and Apply-quick write
Students carefully read the problem and solution provided
Identify the required information to create Problem-Solution Map
Create a Problem Solution Map
Record such information in the Problem-Solution Map
Also identify any alternative solutions if possible
Students can identify from the given problems various parts that can be discussed in the presentation
√ = I already knew that
+ = That's new to me
X = I disagree
! = This is really important
? = I wonder
The student participants have to prepare a detailed report of their analysis in 3 parts namely:
Introduction: This part would include the information of the problem identified and its various aspects as stated in the Problem solution map.
Discussion: This part would highlight in details the solution applied to the situation in reference to the concepts or principles that are applied.
Conclusion: This part would state their learning of situation in terms of current, past or any new understanding or knowledge related to the situation. Any alternative solutions can also be included and also related agreements or disagreements.