problem solving skills for college students

Utility Menu

GA4 Tracking Code

fa51e2b1dc8cca8f7467da564e77b5ea

Make a Gift
Join Our Email List
Problem Solving in STEM

Solving problems is a key component of many science, math, and engineering classes. If a goal of a class is for students to emerge with the ability to solve new kinds of problems or to use new problem-solving techniques, then students need numerous opportunities to develop the skills necessary to approach and answer different types of problems. Problem solving during section or class allows students to develop their confidence in these skills under your guidance, better preparing them to succeed on their homework and exams. This page offers advice about strategies for facilitating problem solving during class.

How do I decide which problems to cover in section or class?

In-class problem solving should reinforce the major concepts from the class and provide the opportunity for theoretical concepts to become more concrete. If students have a problem set for homework, then in-class problem solving should prepare students for the types of problems that they will see on their homework. You may wish to include some simpler problems both in the interest of time and to help students gain confidence, but it is ideal if the complexity of at least some of the in-class problems mirrors the level of difficulty of the homework. You may also want to ask your students ahead of time which skills or concepts they find confusing, and include some problems that are directly targeted to their concerns.

You have given your students a problem to solve in class. What are some strategies to work through it?

Try to give your students a chance to grapple with the problems as much as possible. Offering them the chance to do the problem themselves allows them to learn from their mistakes in the presence of your expertise as their teacher. (If time is limited, they may not be able to get all the way through multi-step problems, in which case it can help to prioritize giving them a chance to tackle the most challenging steps.)
When you do want to teach by solving the problem yourself at the board, talk through the logic of how you choose to apply certain approaches to solve certain problems. This way you can externalize the type of thinking you hope your students internalize when they solve similar problems themselves.
Start by setting up the problem on the board (e.g you might write down key variables and equations; draw a figure illustrating the question). Ask students to start solving the problem, either independently or in small groups. As they are working on the problem, walk around to hear what they are saying and see what they are writing down. If several students seem stuck, it might be a good to collect the whole class again to clarify any confusion. After students have made progress, bring the everyone back together and have students guide you as to what to write on the board.
It can help to first ask students to work on the problem by themselves for a minute, and then get into small groups to work on the problem collaboratively.
If you have ample board space, have students work in small groups at the board while solving the problem. That way you can monitor their progress by standing back and watching what they put up on the board.
If you have several problems you would like to have the students practice, but not enough time for everyone to do all of them, you can assign different groups of students to work on different – but related - problems.

When do you want students to work in groups to solve problems?

Don’t ask students to work in groups for straightforward problems that most students could solve independently in a short amount of time.
Do have students work in groups for thought-provoking problems, where students will benefit from meaningful collaboration.
Even in cases where you plan to have students work in groups, it can be useful to give students some time to work on their own before collaborating with others. This ensures that every student engages with the problem and is ready to contribute to a discussion.

What are some benefits of having students work in groups?

Students bring different strengths, different knowledge, and different ideas for how to solve a problem; collaboration can help students work through problems that are more challenging than they might be able to tackle on their own.
In working in a group, students might consider multiple ways to approach a problem, thus enriching their repertoire of strategies.
Students who think they understand the material will gain a deeper understanding by explaining concepts to their peers.

What are some strategies for helping students to form groups?

Instruct students to work with the person (or people) sitting next to them.
Count off. (e.g. 1, 2, 3, 4; all the 1’s find each other and form a group, etc)
Hand out playing cards; students need to find the person with the same number card. (There are many variants to this. For example, you can print pictures of images that go together [rain and umbrella]; each person gets a card and needs to find their partner[s].)
Based on what you know about the students, assign groups in advance. List the groups on the board.
Note: Always have students take the time to introduce themselves to each other in a new group.

What should you do while your students are working on problems?

Walk around and talk to students. Observing their work gives you a sense of what people understand and what they are struggling with. Answer students’ questions, and ask them questions that lead in a productive direction if they are stuck.
If you discover that many people have the same question—or that someone has a misunderstanding that others might have—you might stop everyone and discuss a key idea with the entire class.

After students work on a problem during class, what are strategies to have them share their answers and their thinking?

Ask for volunteers to share answers. Depending on the nature of the problem, student might provide answers verbally or by writing on the board. As a variant, for questions where a variety of answers are relevant, ask for at least three volunteers before anyone shares their ideas.
Use online polling software for students to respond to a multiple-choice question anonymously.
If students are working in groups, assign reporters ahead of time. For example, the person with the next birthday could be responsible for sharing their group’s work with the class.
Cold call. To reduce student anxiety about cold calling, it can help to identify students who seem to have the correct answer as you were walking around the class and checking in on their progress solving the assigned problem. You may even want to warn the student ahead of time: "This is a great answer! Do you mind if I call on you when we come back together as a class?"
Have students write an answer on a notecard that they turn in to you. If your goal is to understand whether students in general solved a problem correctly, the notecards could be submitted anonymously; if you wish to assess individual students’ work, you would want to ask students to put their names on their notecard.
Use a jigsaw strategy, where you rearrange groups such that each new group is comprised of people who came from different initial groups and had solved different problems. Students now are responsible for teaching the other students in their new group how to solve their problem.
Have a representative from each group explain their problem to the class.
Have a representative from each group draw or write the answer on the board.

What happens if a student gives a wrong answer?

Ask for their reasoning so that you can understand where they went wrong.
Ask if anyone else has other ideas. You can also ask this sometimes when an answer is right.
Cultivate an environment where it’s okay to be wrong. Emphasize that you are all learning together, and that you learn through making mistakes.
Do make sure that you clarify what the correct answer is before moving on.
Once the correct answer is given, go through some answer-checking techniques that can distinguish between correct and incorrect answers. This can help prepare students to verify their future work.

How can you make your classroom inclusive?

The goal is that everyone is thinking, talking, and sharing their ideas, and that everyone feels valued and respected. Use a variety of teaching strategies (independent work and group work; allow students to talk to each other before they talk to the class). Create an environment where it is normal to struggle and make mistakes.
See Kimberly Tanner’s article on strategies to promoste student engagement and cultivate classroom equity.

A few final notes…

Make sure that you have worked all of the problems and also thought about alternative approaches to solving them.
Board work matters. You should have a plan beforehand of what you will write on the board, where, when, what needs to be added, and what can be erased when. If students are going to write their answers on the board, you need to also have a plan for making sure that everyone gets to the correct answer. Students will copy what is on the board and use it as their notes for later study, so correct and logical information must be written there.

For more information...

Tipsheet: Problem Solving in STEM Sections

Tanner, K. D. (2013). Structure matters: twenty-one teaching strategies to promote student engagement and cultivate classroom equity . CBE-Life Sciences Education, 12(3), 322-331.

Designing Your Course
A Teaching Timeline: From Pre-Term Planning to the Final Exam
The First Day of Class
Group Agreements
Classroom Debate
Flipped Classrooms
Leading Discussions
Polling & Clickers
Teaching with Cases
Engaged Scholarship
Devices in the Classroom
Beyond the Classroom
On Professionalism
Getting Feedback
Equitable & Inclusive Teaching
Advising and Mentoring
Teaching and Your Career
Teaching Remotely
Tools and Platforms
The Science of Learning
Bok Publications
Other Resources Around Campus

Center for Teaching

Teaching problem solving.

Print Version

Tips and Techniques

Expert vs. novice problem solvers, communicate.

Have students identify specific problems, difficulties, or confusions . Don’t waste time working through problems that students already understand.
If students are unable to articulate their concerns, determine where they are having trouble by asking them to identify the specific concepts or principles associated with the problem.
In a one-on-one tutoring session, ask the student to work his/her problem out loud . This slows down the thinking process, making it more accurate and allowing you to access understanding.
When working with larger groups you can ask students to provide a written “two-column solution.” Have students write up their solution to a problem by putting all their calculations in one column and all of their reasoning (in complete sentences) in the other column. This helps them to think critically about their own problem solving and helps you to more easily identify where they may be having problems. Two-Column Solution (Math) Two-Column Solution (Physics)

Encourage Independence

Model the problem solving process rather than just giving students the answer. As you work through the problem, consider how a novice might struggle with the concepts and make your thinking clear
Have students work through problems on their own. Ask directing questions or give helpful suggestions, but provide only minimal assistance and only when needed to overcome obstacles.
Don’t fear group work ! Students can frequently help each other, and talking about a problem helps them think more critically about the steps needed to solve the problem. Additionally, group work helps students realize that problems often have multiple solution strategies, some that might be more effective than others

Be sensitive

Frequently, when working problems, students are unsure of themselves. This lack of confidence may hamper their learning. It is important to recognize this when students come to us for help, and to give each student some feeling of mastery. Do this by providing positive reinforcement to let students know when they have mastered a new concept or skill.

Encourage Thoroughness and Patience

Try to communicate that the process is more important than the answer so that the student learns that it is OK to not have an instant solution. This is learned through your acceptance of his/her pace of doing things, through your refusal to let anxiety pressure you into giving the right answer, and through your example of problem solving through a step-by step process.

Experts (teachers) in a particular field are often so fluent in solving problems from that field that they can find it difficult to articulate the problem solving principles and strategies they use to novices (students) in their field because these principles and strategies are second nature to the expert. To teach students problem solving skills, a teacher should be aware of principles and strategies of good problem solving in his or her discipline .

The mathematician George Polya captured the problem solving principles and strategies he used in his discipline in the book How to Solve It: A New Aspect of Mathematical Method (Princeton University Press, 1957). The book includes a summary of Polya’s problem solving heuristic as well as advice on the teaching of problem solving.

problem solving skills for college students

Teaching Guides

Online Course Development Resources
Principles & Frameworks
Pedagogies & Strategies
Reflecting & Assessing
Challenges & Opportunities
Populations & Contexts

Quick Links

Services for Departments and Schools
Examples of Online Instructional Modules

7.5 Problem-Solving

Questions to Consider:

How can determining the best approach to solve a problem help you generate solutions?
Why do thinkers create multiple solutions to problems?

When we’re solving a problem, whether at work, school, or home, we are being asked to perform multiple, often complex, tasks. The most effective problem-solving approach includes some variation of the following steps:

Determine the issue(s)
Recognize other perspectives
Think of multiple possible results
Research and evaluate the possibilities
Select the best result(s)
Communicate your findings
Establish logical action items based on your analysis

Determining the best approach to any given problem and generating more than one possible solution to the problem constitutes the complicated process of problem-solving. People who are good at these skills are highly marketable because many jobs consist of a series of problems that need to be solved for production, services, goods, and sales to continue smoothly. Think about what happens when a worker at your favorite coffee shop slips on a wet spot behind the counter, dropping several drinks she just prepared. One problem is the employee may be hurt, in need of attention, and probably embarrassed; another problem is that several customers do not have the drinks they were waiting for; and another problem is that stopping production of drinks (to care for the hurt worker, to clean up her spilled drinks, to make new drinks) causes the line at the cash register to back up. A good manager has to juggle all of these elements to resolve the situation as quickly and efficiently as possible. That resolution and return to standard operations doesn’t happen without a great deal of thinking: prioritizing needs, shifting other workers off one station onto another temporarily, and dealing with all the people involved, from the injured worker to the impatient patrons.

Determining the Best Approach

Faced with a problem-solving opportunity, you must assess the skills you will need to create solutions. Problem-solving can involve many different types of thinking. You may have to call on your creative, analytical, or critical thinking skills—or more frequently, a combination of several different types of thinking—to solve a problem satisfactorily. When you approach a situation, how can you decide what is the best type of thinking to employ? Sometimes the answer is obvious; if you are working a scientific challenge, you likely will use analytical thinking; if you are a design student considering the atmosphere of a home, you may need to tap into creative thinking skills; and if you are an early childhood education major outlining the logistics involved in establishing a summer day camp for children, you may need a combination of critical, analytical, and creative thinking to solve this challenge.

What sort of thinking do you imagine initially helped in the following scenarios? How would the other types of thinking come into resolving these problems?

Analytical thinking
Creative thinking
Critical thinking

Write a one- to two-sentence rationale for why you chose the answers you did on the above survey.

Generating Multiple Solutions

Why do you think it is important to provide multiple solutions when you’re going through the steps to solve problems? Typically, you’ll end up only using one solution at a time, so why expend the extra energy to create alternatives? If you planned a wonderful trip to Europe and had all the sites you want to see planned out and reservations made, you would think that your problem-solving and organizational skills had quite a workout. But what if when you arrived, the country you’re visiting is enmeshed in a public transportation strike experts predict will last several weeks if not longer? A back-up plan would have helped you contemplate alternatives you could substitute for the original plans. You certainly cannot predict every possible contingency—sick children, weather delays, economic downfalls—but you can be prepared for unexpected issues to come up and adapt more easily if you plan for multiple solutions.

Write out at least two possible solutions to these dilemmas:

Your significant other wants a birthday present—you have no cash.
You have three exams scheduled on a day when you also need to work.
Your car needs new tires, an oil change, and gas—you have no cash. (Is there a trend here?)
You have to pass a running test for your physical education class, but you’re out of shape.

Providing more than one solution to a problem gives people options. You may not need several options, but having more than one solution will allow you to feel more in control and part of the problem-solving process.

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

This book may not be used in the training of large language models or otherwise be ingested into large language models or generative AI offerings without OpenStax's permission.

Want to cite, share, or modify this book? This book uses the Creative Commons Attribution License and you must attribute OpenStax.

Access for free at https://openstax.org/books/college-success/pages/1-introduction

Authors: Amy Baldwin
Publisher/website: OpenStax
Book title: College Success
Publication date: Mar 27, 2020
Location: Houston, Texas
Book URL: https://openstax.org/books/college-success/pages/1-introduction
Section URL: https://openstax.org/books/college-success/pages/7-5-problem-solving

© Sep 20, 2023 OpenStax. Textbook content produced by OpenStax is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution License . The OpenStax name, OpenStax logo, OpenStax book covers, OpenStax CNX name, and OpenStax CNX logo are not subject to the Creative Commons license and may not be reproduced without the prior and express written consent of Rice University.

4.6 Problem-Solving

Questions to consider:.

How can determining the best approach to solve a problem help you generate solutions?
Why do thinkers create multiple solutions to problems?

Determine the issue(s)
Recognize other perspectives
Think of multiple possible results
Research and evaluate the possibilities
Select the best result(s)
Communicate your findings
Establish logical action items based on your analysis

Determining the Best Approach

What sort of thinking do you imagine initially helped in the following scenarios? How would the other types of thinking come into resolving these problems?

Analytical thinking
Creative thinking
Critical thinking

Write a one- to two-sentence rationale for why you chose the answers you did on the above survey.

Generating Multiple Solutions

Write out at least two possible solutions to these dilemmas:

Your significant other wants a birthday present—you have no cash.
You have three exams scheduled on a day when you also need to work.
Your car needs new tires, an oil change, and gas—you have no cash. (Is there a trend here?)
You have to pass a running test for your physical education class, but you’re out of shape.

Source: OpenStax College Success is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution License v4.0

Share This Book

Chapter 8: Thinking, Communicating & Problem-Solving

Critical thinking & problem-solving, assess your critical thinking strategies.

Visit the Quia Critical Thinking Quiz page and click on Start Now (you don’t need to enter your name).
Select the best answer for each question, and then click on Submit Answers. A score of 70 percent or better on this quiz is considered passing.
Based on the content of the questions, do you feel you use good critical thinking strategies in college? In what ways could you improve as a critical thinker?

The essence of the independent mind lies not in what it thinks, but in how it thinks. —Christopher Hitchens, author and journalist

Critical Thinking

As a college student, you are tasked with engaging and expanding your thinking skills. One of the most important of these skills is critical thinking. Critical thinking is important because it relates to nearly all tasks, situations, topics, careers, environments, challenges, and opportunities. It’s a discipline-general thinking skill, not a thinking skill that’s reserved for a one subject alone or restricted to a particular content area. Of all your thinking skills, critical thinking may have the greatest value.

What Is Critical Thinking?

Critical thinking is clear, reasonable, reflective thinking focused on deciding what to believe or do. It means asking probing questions like, “How do we know?” or “Is this true in every case or just in this instance?” It involves being skeptical and challenging assumptions, rather than simply memorizing facts or blindly accepting what you hear or read. Critical thinking skills will help you in any profession or any circumstance of life, from science to art to business to teaching.

Critical thinkers are curious and reflective people. They explore and probe new areas and seek knowledge, clarification, and solutions. They ask pertinent questions, evaluate statements and arguments, and distinguish between facts and opinion. They are also willing to examine their own beliefs, possessing a manner of humility that allows them to admit lack of knowledge or understanding when needed. Critical thinkers are open to changing their mind. Perhaps most of all, they actively enjoy learning and view seeking new knowledge as a lifelong pursuit.

Thinking critically will help you develop more balanced arguments, express yourself clearly, read more critically, and glean important information efficiently. With critical thinking, you become a clearer thinker and problem solver.

The following video, from Lawrence Bland, presents the major concepts and benefits of critical thinking.

The Role of Logic in Critical Thinking

Critical thinking is fundamentally a process of questioning information and data. You may question the information you read in a textbook, or you may question what a politician or a professor or a classmate says. You can also question a commonly-held belief or a new idea. With critical thinking, anything and everything is subject to question and examination for the purpose of logically constructing reasoned perspectives.

The word logic comes from the Ancient Greek logike , referring to the science or art of reasoning. Using logic, a person evaluates arguments and reasoning and strives to distinguish between good and bad reasoning or between truth and falsehood. Using logic, you can evaluate ideas or claims people make, make good decisions, and form sound beliefs about the world. [1] . Logical thinkers provide reasonable and appropriate evidence to support their claims, acknowledge the strengths of the opposing side’s position, actively investigate a variety of possible outcomes or new solutions, and use measured and objective language to present their positions.

Clarify Thinking

When you use critical thinking to evaluate information, you need to clarify your thinking to yourself and likely to others. Doing this well is mainly a process of asking and answering logical, probing questions. Design your questions to fit your needs, but be sure to cover adequate ground.

What is the purpose?
What question are we trying to answer?
What point of view is being expressed?
What assumptions are we or others making?
What are the facts and data we know, and how do we know them?
What are the concepts we’re working with?
What are the conclusions, and do they make sense?
What are the implications?

Avoid Fallacies

You’ll also want to make sure you can avoid and spot logical fallacies. Fallacies are faults in thinking or illogical approaches used to persuade the other side. Statements such as, everyone else is doing it ca n be very persuasive even though they demonstrate faulty logic, in this case, the bandwagon appeal. These fallacies can undermine your authority and weaken your position. Students shouldn’t park in the faculty lot because that lot is for faculty is another example of a logical fallacy, this time circular reasoning.

Consult the two websites below to identify and avoid some of the many kinds of logical fallacies:

Fallacies Files—Home
Logical Fallacies Jeopardy

Applying critical thinking

The following questions may apply to formulating a logical, reasoned perspective in the scenario below or any other situation:

What is happening? Gather the basic information and begin to think of questions.
Why is it important? Ask yourself why it’s significant and whether or not you agree.
What don’t I see? Is there anything important missing?
How do I know? Ask yourself where the information came from and how it was constructed.
Who is saying it? What’s the position of the speaker and what is influencing them?
What else? What if? What other ideas exist and are there other possibilities?

A man has a Ph.D. in political science, and he works as a professor at a local college. His wife works at the college, too. They have three young children in the local school system, and their family is well known in the community. The man is now running for political office.

Are his credentials and experience sufficient for entering public office? Will he be effective in political office? Some voters might believe that his personal life and current job, on the surface, suggest he will do well in the position, and they will vote for him. In truth, the characteristics described don’t guarantee that the man will do a good job. The information is somewhat irrelevant.

What else might you want to know? How about whether the man had already held a political office and done a good job? In this case, we want to ask, How much information is adequate in order to make a decision based on logic instead of assumptions?

Problem-Solving with Critical Thinking

For most people, a typical day is filled with critical thinking and problem-solving challenges. In fact, critical thinking and problem-solving go hand-in-hand. They both refer to using knowledge, facts, and data to solve problems effectively, but with problem-solving, you are specifically identifying, selecting, and defending your solution.

Applying the strategies described in the action checklist below can help you utilize critical thinking skills to solve problems.

Problem-solving can be an efficient and rewarding process, especially if you are organized and mindful of critical steps and strategies. Remember, too, to assume the attributes of a good critical thinker. If you are curious, reflective, knowledge-seeking, open to change, probing, organized, and ethical, your challenge or problem will be less of a hurdle, and you’ll be in a good position to find intelligent solutions.

Developing Yourself As a Critical Thinker and Problem-Solver

Critical thinking is a fundamental skill for college students, but it should also be a lifelong pursuit that we continually refine. Below are additional strategies to develop yourself as a critical thinker in college and in everyday life:

Reflect and practice : Always reflect on what you’ve learned. Is it true all the time? How did you arrive at your conclusions?
Use wasted time : It’s certainly important to make time for relaxing, but if you find you are indulging in too much of a good thing, think about using your time more constructively. Determine when you do your best thinking and try to learn something new during that part of the day.
Redefine the way you see things : It can be very uninteresting to always think the same way. Challenge yourself to see familiar things in new ways. Put yourself in someone else’s shoes and consider a certain situation from a different angle or perspective. If you’re trying to solve a problem, list all your concerns, such as what you need in order to solve it, who can help, and what some possible barriers might be. It’s often possible to reframe a problem as an opportunity. Try to find a solution where there seems to be none.
Analyze the influences on your thinking and in your life : Why do you think or feel the way you do? Analyze your influences. Think about who in your life influences you. Do you feel or react a certain way because of social convention or because you believe it is what is expected of you? Try to break out of any molds that may be constricting you.
Express yourself : Critical thinking also involves being able to express yourself clearly. Most important in expressing yourself clearly is stating one point at a time. You might be inclined to argue every thought, but you might have greater impact if you focus only on your main arguments. This will help others to follow your thinking clearly. For more abstract ideas, assume that your audience may not understand. Provide examples, analogies, or metaphors where you can.
Enhance your wellness : It’s easier to think critically when you take care of your mental and physical health. Try taking 10-minute activity breaks to reach 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity each day . Try taking a break between classes and walk to the coffee shop that’s farthest away. Scheduling physical activity into your day can help lower stress and increase mental alertness.
Do your most difficult work when you have the most energy: Think about the time of day you are most effective and have the most energy. Plan to do your most difficult thinking during these times.

Reflect on Critical Thinking

Think about someone whom you consider to be a critical thinker (friend, professor, historical figure, etc). What qualities does he/she have?
Review some of the critical thinking strategies discussed on this page. Choose one strategy that makes sense to you. How can you apply this critical thinking technique to your academic work?
Habits of mind are attitudes and beliefs that influence how you approach the world (inquiring attitude, open mind, respect for truth, etc.). What is one habit of mind you would like to actively develop over the next year? How will you develop a daily practice to cultivate this habit?

Cultivate Critical Habits of Mind

Earlier in this text we discussed, “habits of mind,” the personal commitments, values, and standards people have about the principle of good thinking. Consider your intellectual commitments, values, and standards. Do you approach problems with an open mind, a respect for truth, and an inquiring attitude? Some good habits to have when thinking critically are being receptive to having your opinions changed, having respect for others, being independent and not accepting something is true until you’ve had the time to examine the available evidence. Other important habits of mind include being fair-minded, having respect for a reason, having an inquiring mind, not making assumptions, and always, especially, questioning your own conclusions. In their quest towards developing an intellectual work ethic, critical thinkers constantly try to work these qualities into their daily lives.

problem-solving with critical thinking

Below are some examples of using critical thinking to problem-solve. Can you think of additional action steps to apply to the following situations? You may want to look back to Chapter 2 “Defining Goals” to utilize the five step problem solving strategy described there.

Your roommate was upset and said some unkind words to you, which has put a crimp in the relationship. You try to see through the angry behaviors to determine how you might best support your roommate and help bring the relationship back to a comfortable spot.
Your campus club has been languishing on account of lack of participation and funds. The new club president, though, is a marketing major and has identified some strategies to interest students in joining and supporting the club. Implementation is forthcoming.
Your final art class project challenges you to conceptualize form in new ways. On the last day of class when students present their projects, you describe the techniques you used to fulfill the assignment. You explain why and how you selected that approach.
Your math teacher sees that the class is not quite grasping a concept. She uses clever questioning to dispel anxiety and guide you to new understanding of the concept.
You have a job interview for a position that you feel you are only partially qualified for, although you really want the job and you are excited about the prospects. You analyze how you will explain your skills and experiences in a way to show that you are a good match for the prospective employer.
You are doing well in college, and most of your college and living expenses are covered. But there are some gaps between what you want and what you feel you can afford. You analyze your income, savings, and budget to better calculate what you will need to stay in college and maintain your desired level of spending.
"logike." Wordnik. n.d. Web. 16 Feb 2016. ↵
"Student Success-Thinking Critically In Class and Online." Critical Thinking Gateway . St Petersburg College, n.d. Web. 16 Feb 2016. ↵
Critical Thinking Skills. Authored by : Linda Bruce. Provided by : Lumen Learning. License : CC BY: Attribution
Critical Thinking. Provided by : Critical and Creative Thinking Program. Located at : http://cct.wikispaces.umb.edu/Critical+Thinking . License : CC BY: Attribution
Thinking Critically. Authored by : UBC Learning Commons. Provided by : The University of British Columbia, Vancouver Campus. Located at : http://www.oercommons.org/courses/learning-toolkit-critical-thinking/view . License : CC BY: Attribution
Critical Thinking 101: Spectrum of Authority. Authored by : UBC Leap. Located at : https://youtu.be/9G5xooMN2_c . License : CC BY: Attribution
Image of students putting post-its on wall. Authored by : Hector Alejandro. Located at : https://flic.kr/p/7b2Ax2 . License : CC BY: Attribution
Foundations of Academic Success. Authored by : Thomas C. Priester, editor. Provided by : Open SUNY Textbooks. Located at : http://textbooks.opensuny.org/foundations-of-academic-success/ . License : CC BY-NC-SA: Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike
Image of three students. Authored by : PopTech. Located at : https://flic.kr/p/8tXtQp . License : CC BY-SA: Attribution-ShareAlike
Critical Thinking.wmv. Authored by : Lawrence Bland. Located at : https://youtu.be/WiSklIGUblo . License : All Rights Reserved . License Terms : Standard YouTube License

Why Every Educator Needs to Teach Problem-Solving Skills

Strong problem-solving skills will help students be more resilient and will increase their academic and career success .

Want to learn more about how to measure and teach students’ higher-order skills, including problem solving, critical thinking, and written communication?

Problem-solving skills are essential in school, careers, and life.

Problem-solving skills are important for every student to master. They help individuals navigate everyday life and find solutions to complex issues and challenges. These skills are especially valuable in the workplace, where employees are often required to solve problems and make decisions quickly and effectively.

Problem-solving skills are also needed for students’ personal growth and development because they help individuals overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. By developing strong problem-solving skills, students can improve their overall quality of life and become more successful in their personal and professional endeavors.

Problem-Solving Skills Help Students…

develop resilience.

Problem-solving skills are an integral part of resilience and the ability to persevere through challenges and adversity. To effectively work through and solve a problem, students must be able to think critically and creatively. Critical and creative thinking help students approach a problem objectively, analyze its components, and determine different ways to go about finding a solution.

This process in turn helps students build self-efficacy . When students are able to analyze and solve a problem, this increases their confidence, and they begin to realize the power they have to advocate for themselves and make meaningful change.

When students gain confidence in their ability to work through problems and attain their goals, they also begin to build a growth mindset . According to leading resilience researcher, Carol Dweck, “in a growth mindset, people believe that their most basic abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work—brains and talent are just the starting point. This view creates a love of learning and a resilience that is essential for great accomplishment.”

Set and Achieve Goals

Students who possess strong problem-solving skills are better equipped to set and achieve their goals. By learning how to identify problems, think critically, and develop solutions, students can become more self-sufficient and confident in their ability to achieve their goals. Additionally, problem-solving skills are used in virtually all fields, disciplines, and career paths, which makes them important for everyone. Building strong problem-solving skills will help students enhance their academic and career performance and become more competitive as they begin to seek full-time employment after graduation or pursue additional education and training.

Resolve Conflicts

In addition to increased social and emotional skills like self-efficacy and goal-setting, problem-solving skills teach students how to cooperate with others and work through disagreements and conflicts. Problem-solving promotes “thinking outside the box” and approaching a conflict by searching for different solutions. This is a very different (and more effective!) method than a more stagnant approach that focuses on placing blame or getting stuck on elements of a situation that can’t be changed.

While it’s natural to get frustrated or feel stuck when working through a conflict, students with strong problem-solving skills will be able to work through these obstacles, think more rationally, and address the situation with a more solution-oriented approach. These skills will be valuable for students in school, their careers, and throughout their lives.

Achieve Success

We are all faced with problems every day. Problems arise in our personal lives, in school and in our jobs, and in our interactions with others. Employers especially are looking for candidates with strong problem-solving skills. In today’s job market, most jobs require the ability to analyze and effectively resolve complex issues. Students with strong problem-solving skills will stand out from other applicants and will have a more desirable skill set.

In a recent opinion piece published by The Hechinger Report , Virgel Hammonds, Chief Learning Officer at KnowledgeWorks, stated “Our world presents increasingly complex challenges. Education must adapt so that it nurtures problem solvers and critical thinkers.” Yet, the “traditional K–12 education system leaves little room for students to engage in real-world problem-solving scenarios.” This is the reason that a growing number of K–12 school districts and higher education institutions are transforming their instructional approach to personalized and competency-based learning, which encourage students to make decisions, problem solve and think critically as they take ownership of and direct their educational journey.

Problem-Solving Skills Can Be Measured and Taught

Research shows that problem-solving skills can be measured and taught. One effective method is through performance-based assessments which require students to demonstrate or apply their knowledge and higher-order skills to create a response or product or do a task.

What Are Performance-Based Assessments?

With the No Child Left Behind Act (2002), the use of standardized testing became the primary way to measure student learning in the U.S. The legislative requirements of this act shifted the emphasis to standardized testing, and this led to a decline in nontraditional testing methods .

But many educators, policy makers, and parents have concerns with standardized tests. Some of the top issues include that they don’t provide feedback on how students can perform better, they don’t value creativity, they are not representative of diverse populations, and they can be disadvantageous to lower-income students.

While standardized tests are still the norm, U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona is encouraging states and districts to move away from traditional multiple choice and short response tests and instead use performance-based assessment, competency-based assessments, and other more authentic methods of measuring students abilities and skills rather than rote learning.

Performance-based assessments measure whether students can apply the skills and knowledge learned from a unit of study. Typically, a performance task challenges students to use their higher-order skills to complete a project or process. Tasks can range from an essay to a complex proposal or design.

Preview a Performance-Based Assessment

Want a closer look at how performance-based assessments work? Preview CAE’s K–12 and Higher Education assessments and see how CAE’s tools help students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and written communication skills.

Performance-Based Assessments Help Students Build and Practice Problem-Solving Skills

In addition to effectively measuring students’ higher-order skills, including their problem-solving skills, performance-based assessments can help students practice and build these skills. Through the assessment process, students are given opportunities to practically apply their knowledge in real-world situations. By demonstrating their understanding of a topic, students are required to put what they’ve learned into practice through activities such as presentations, experiments, and simulations.

This type of problem-solving assessment tool requires students to analyze information and choose how to approach the presented problems. This process enhances their critical thinking skills and creativity, as well as their problem-solving skills. Unlike traditional assessments based on memorization or reciting facts, performance-based assessments focus on the students’ decisions and solutions, and through these tasks students learn to bridge the gap between theory and practice.

Performance-based assessments like CAE’s College and Career Readiness Assessment (CRA+) and Collegiate Learning Assessment (CLA+) provide students with in-depth reports that show them which higher-order skills they are strongest in and which they should continue to develop. This feedback helps students and their teachers plan instruction and supports to deepen their learning and improve their mastery of critical skills.

Explore CAE’s Problem-Solving Assessments

CAE offers performance-based assessments that measure student proficiency in higher-order skills including problem solving, critical thinking, and written communication.

College and Career Readiness Assessment (CCRA+) for secondary education and
Collegiate Learning Assessment (CLA+) for higher education.

Our solution also includes instructional materials, practice models, and professional development.

We can help you create a program to build students’ problem-solving skills that includes:

Measuring students’ problem-solving skills through a performance-based assessment
Using the problem-solving assessment data to inform instruction and tailor interventions
Teaching students problem-solving skills and providing practice opportunities in real-life scenarios
Supporting educators with quality professional development

Get started with our problem-solving assessment tools to measure and build students’ problem-solving skills today! These skills will be invaluable to students now and in the future.

Ready to Get Started?

Learn more about cae’s suite of products and let’s get started measuring and teaching students important higher-order skills like problem solving..

Don’t Just Tell Students to Solve Problems. Teach Them How.

The positive impact of an innovative uc san diego problem-solving educational curriculum continues to grow.

Daniel Kane - [email protected]

Published Date

Not getting stuck

One of the overarching goals of this project is to teach both problem-identification and problem-solving skills that help students avoid getting stuck during the learning process. Stuck feelings lead to frustration – and when it’s a Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) project, that frustration can lead students to feel they don’t belong in a STEM major or a STEM career. Instead, the UC San Diego curriculum is designed to give students the tools that lead to reactions like “this class is hard, but I know I can do this!” – as Ogo, a celebrated high school biomedical sciences and technology teacher, put it.

Three years into the curriculum development effort, the light-hearted energy of the students combined with their intense focus points to success. On the last day of the class, Mourad Mjahed PhD, Director of the MESA Program at Southwestern College’s School of Mathematics, Science and Engineering came to UC San Diego to see the final project presentations made by his 22 MESA students.

“Industry is looking for students who have learned from their failures and who have worked outside of their comfort zones,” said Mjahed. The UC San Diego problem-solving curriculum, Mjahed noted, is an opportunity for students to build the skills and the confidence to learn from their failures and to work outside their comfort zone. “And from there, they see pathways to real careers,” he said.

What does it mean to explicitly teach problem solving?

This approach to teaching problem solving includes a significant focus on learning to identify the problem that actually needs to be solved, in order to avoid solving the wrong problem. The curriculum is organized so that each day is a complete experience. It begins with the teacher introducing the problem-identification or problem-solving strategy of the day. The teacher then presents case studies of that particular strategy in action. Next, the students get introduced to the day’s challenge project. Working in teams, the students compete to win the challenge while integrating the day’s technique. Finally, the class reconvenes to reflect. They discuss what worked and didn't work with their designs as well as how they could have used the day’s problem-identification or problem-solving technique more effectively.

The challenges are designed to be engaging – and over three years, they have been refined to be even more engaging. But the student engagement is about much more than being entertained. Many of the students recognize early on that the problem-identification and problem-solving skills they are learning can be applied not just in the classroom, but in other classes and in life in general.

Gabriel from Southwestern College is one of the students who saw benefits outside the classroom almost immediately. In addition to taking the UC San Diego problem-solving course, Gabriel was concurrently enrolled in an online computer science programming class. He said he immediately started applying the UC San Diego problem-identification and troubleshooting strategies to his coding assignments.

Gabriel noted that he was given a coding-specific troubleshooting strategy in the computer science course, but the more general problem-identification strategies from the UC San Diego class had been extremely helpful. It’s critical to “find the right problem so you can get the right solution. The strategies here,” he said, “they work everywhere.”

Phan echoed this sentiment. “We believe this curriculum can prepare students for the technical workforce. It can prepare students to be impactful for any career path.”

The goal is to be able to offer the course in community colleges for course credit that transfers to the UC, and to possibly offer a version of the course to incoming students at UC San Diego.

As the team continues to work towards integrating the curriculum in both standardized high school courses such as physics, and incorporating the content as a part of the general education curriculum at UC San Diego, the project is expected to impact thousands more students across San Diego annually.

Portrait of the Problem-Solving Curriculum

On a sunny Wednesday in July 2023, an experiential-learning classroom was full of San Diego community college students. They were about half-way through the three-week problem-solving course at UC San Diego, held in the campus’ EnVision Arts and Engineering Maker Studio. On this day, the students were challenged to build a contraption that would propel at least six ping pong balls along a kite string spanning the laboratory. The only propulsive force they could rely on was the air shooting out of a party balloon.

A team of three students from Southwestern College – Valeria, Melissa and Alondra – took an early lead in the classroom competition. They were the first to use a plastic bag instead of disposable cups to hold the ping pong balls. Using a bag, their design got more than half-way to the finish line – better than any other team at the time – but there was more work to do.

As the trio considered what design changes to make next, they returned to the problem-solving theme of the day: unintended consequences. Earlier in the day, all the students had been challenged to consider unintended consequences and ask questions like: When you design to reduce friction, what happens? Do new problems emerge? Did other things improve that you hadn’t anticipated?

Other groups soon followed Valeria, Melissa and Alondra’s lead and began iterating on their own plastic-bag solutions to the day’s challenge. New unintended consequences popped up everywhere. Switching from cups to a bag, for example, reduced friction but sometimes increased wind drag.

Over the course of several iterations, Valeria, Melissa and Alondra made their bag smaller, blew their balloon up bigger, and switched to a different kind of tape to get a better connection with the plastic straw that slid along the kite string, carrying the ping pong balls.

One of the groups on the other side of the room watched the emergence of the plastic-bag solution with great interest.

“We tried everything, then we saw a team using a bag,” said Alexander, a student from City College. His team adopted the plastic-bag strategy as well, and iterated on it like everyone else. They also chose to blow up their balloon with a hand pump after the balloon was already attached to the bag filled with ping pong balls – which was unique.

“I don’t want to be trying to put the balloon in place when it's about to explode,” Alexander explained.

Asked about whether the structured problem solving approaches were useful, Alexander’s teammate Brianna, who is a Southwestern College student, talked about how the problem-solving tools have helped her get over mental blocks. “Sometimes we make the most ridiculous things work,” she said. “It’s a pretty fun class for sure.”

Yoshadara, a City College student who is the third member of this team, described some of the problem solving techniques this way: “It’s about letting yourself be a little absurd.”

Alexander jumped back into the conversation. “The value is in the abstraction. As students, we learn to look at the problem solving that worked and then abstract out the problem solving strategy that can then be applied to other challenges. That’s what mathematicians do all the time,” he said, adding that he is already thinking about how he can apply the process of looking at unintended consequences to improve both how he plays chess and how he goes about solving math problems.

Looking ahead, the goal is to empower as many students as possible in the San Diego area and beyond to learn to problem solve more enjoyably. It’s a concrete way to give students tools that could encourage them to thrive in the growing number of technical careers that require sharp problem-solving skills, whether or not they require a four-year degree.

Campus & Community

Arts & culture, visual storytelling.

Media Resources & Contacts

Signup to get the latest UC San Diego newsletters delivered to your inbox.

Award-winning publication highlighting the distinction, prestige and global impact of UC San Diego.

Popular Searches: Covid-19 Ukraine Campus & Community Arts & Culture Voices

Academic Problems and Skills

Learning Problem, Learning Skill

Reviewed by Psychology Today Staff

Every school wants every child under its charge to receive the same educational opportunities. However, some students develop academic problems that may cause them to underachieve and, in extreme cases, drop out of school entirely. These problems include confusion about or disinterest in a subject, time management (including procrastination ), lack of attention from teachers, bullying , and inappropriate or violent behavior toward others. While many academic problems can be resolved if caught early and tackled with the help of professionals, some difficulties can persist for years, wreaking havoc on the student’s self-esteem and social relationships.

Conversely, academic skills can be protective influences for students, driving them to achieve their goals . Examples include staying organized, using time wisely, prioritizing effectively, concentrating on tasks, and keeping motivated. With all of the responsibilities that students need to manage at school and at home, these abilities are essential to their success.

Signs and Causes of Trouble
School and Mental Health
Academic Strengths

Teachers and parents are often the first line of defense against academic problems. They should be attuned to any changes in the child’s behavior—such as a drop in grades, a sudden lack of interest in the classroom or at home, skipping classes, or a tendency to act out with teachers or peers or family members. These behaviors may signify an underlying cause that needs to be addressed. It’s important for adults to identify any contributing factors of trouble. A person’s physical health can have a powerful effect on academic performance, and vice versa. If adults see concerning behavior, they should find out if the student is experiencing a lack of sleep, poor nutrition , chronic illness , or a newly developed loss of vision or hearing.

Academic problems can also indicate a possible learning disability, such as dyslexia or ADHD . In such cases, student performance may benefit from school accommodations, such as extra time on tests or additional visual or auditory learning aids for lessons. Parents may also want to consider whether there is a better fit for their child, including placement in a special education classroom with fewer students and specially trained staff.

Children and teens are more anxious than ever before. Risk factors like poor sleep and exposure to violence are on the rise. Parents and school personnel need to know how to identify the warning signs, deploying intervention immediately to prevent at-risk students from harming themselves and others.

Trouble at school can be both a symptom and a risk factor of mental health conditions. Students today are under extraordinary pressure to excel at academics and extracurriculars, leading to massive stress and worry. When students feel like they cannot measure up to these high and unfair standards, they may develop problems ranging from general anxiety to depression to thoughts of suicide .

Students also have to cope with greater insecurity and a feeling that the world is less safe, given the rise of political instability and violence at schools, particularly mass shootings . This can cause great emotional upset and make it difficult to perform at peak levels.

Ordinary disciplinary measures increase aggression in students. And in turn, this increases everyday violence. Students and teachers are on edge. Plus, anxiety about the possibility of a school shooting is common among students, parents, and school staff, despite the additional safety precautions that many schools are taking.

Students can build up resilience to the stress and anxiety they feel daily in several ways. They can cultivate strong relationships with their peers and teachers and look for opportunities to maximize their strengths as well as engage with the school community. They should also pay attention to their bodies and understand the importance of self-care—getting enough rest, hydrating, eating healthy foods, and exercising.

Healthy ways to address these fears include making sure students have accurate information, keeping an open line of communication, asking questions rather than making statements, discussing emotions in an age-appropriate manner, and having students describe what would make them feel safer.

Students who are confident and successful in school tend to share particular academic strengths. While some of these skills may come more easily than others, with time and attention, students can build up their proficiency in most of these areas. Not only do colleges and universities look for these qualities when considering applicants, but they also will serve people well as they transition into the workforce and adult life. Important academic strengths include:

Attention to Detail: Someone with this strength is able to follow instructions while making fewer mistakes. They find it easier to focus on the task at hand and complete an assignment.

Cognitive Flexibility: The most successful students are cognitively flexible and able to adapt to new challenges and changes. A flexible mind moves from task to task, applying what was previously learned to new contexts and problems.

Communication: Humans are social by nature and communicating well, both orally and in writing, is crucial. The ability to clarify goals and expectations furthers cooperation .

Creativity : Innovation and the ability to think more abstractly are in high demand both academically and professionally. Creative thinkers generate great works of art as well as smart solutions to modern problems. Technology evolves daily and creativity is a valuable strength.

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: Over time, students may forget the details of what they formally studied. However, the ability to think critically allows one to learn efficiently, identify problems, find solutions, evaluate progress, and make plans for the future.

Organization: Students must juggle competing demands, including school assignments, exams, extracurricular activities, family obligations, relationships, and more. Planning ahead, stating clear goals, prioritizing tasks, and managing time can help organizational skills.

Passion: Being thoroughly engaged in a subject can be a powerful motivation for students. A person who is curious and enthusiastic shows a commitment to learning, a positive quality that stands out.

Resilience : Even the best students face academic challenges. After a failure, the resilient learn from their failures and bounce back. They persevere and overcome new obstacles readily.

It’s not what you “get” out of college that changes your life; it’s what you’re given. Knowledge, curiosity, an appetite for learning and perspective are portable property.

A Personal Perspective: The U.S. Supreme Court overturned affirmative action using Asian Americans' stories. What do Asian Americans think of affirmative action?

Is it better for kids to read books or spend time on screens? Research shows early reading for pleasure is a game-changer for healthy brain development. Screen time? Not so much.

Authentic Exploratory Research hones students’ business and analysis skills.

Helping your child select a college was just the beginning. Now, your role is to support their success.

Unlock your career confidence with these five tips for sustainable career success.

Sometimes, you have to do things yourself.

Discernment is a lifeskill for achieving greater clarity, attention, and decision-making.

What if the quality of the education your child receives largely comes down to luck? This is an idea proposed by Dr. David Steiner in his new book.

As handwriting skill wanes states push back and readers respond.

Find a Therapist
Find a Treatment Center
Find a Psychiatrist
Find a Support Group
Find Online Therapy
United States
Brooklyn, NY
Chicago, IL
Houston, TX
Los Angeles, CA
New York, NY
Portland, OR
San Diego, CA
San Francisco, CA
Seattle, WA
Washington, DC
Asperger's
Bipolar Disorder
Chronic Pain
Eating Disorders
Passive Aggression
Personality
Goal Setting
Positive Psychology
Stopping Smoking
Low Sexual Desire
Relationships
Child Development
Therapy Center NEW
Diagnosis Dictionary
Types of Therapy

At any moment, someone’s aggravating behavior or our own bad luck can set us off on an emotional spiral that threatens to derail our entire day. Here’s how we can face our triggers with less reactivity so that we can get on with our lives.

Emotional Intelligence
Gaslighting
Affective Forecasting
Neuroscience

Apply Apply
Request Information Get Info
Visit NLC Visit Us
Our College
Strategic Planning
College Offices
Request Information

Northeast Lakeview College is a public community college that is focused on student success through the offering of Associate degrees and continuing education, promoting engagement in civic activities and organizations, and encouraging participation in cultural and enrichment programs.

Cyber Defense
Find Your Program
Online Learning
Instructional Innovation Center
Academic Calendar
Academic Resources
Tutoring Services
High School Programs
Mexican American Studies
Honors Academy
Workforce Training Network

Northeast Lakeview College provides a collaborative, supportive academic community to help you achieve your learning goals.

Alamo Anytime: Enrollment Help Videos
Bacterial Meningitis Vaccinations
NLC Advantage Program
How to Apply
Paying for College
Assessment Center
Outreach and Recruitment
Registration & Payment Deadlines

Admissions & Aid

The Northeast Lakeview College Admissions and Records Department is here to assist you with the enrollment process. We have an open door admissions policy to ensure that every person has the opportunity to get a college education.

Current Students
Campus Life
Students with Children

Experience NLC

A center for educational excellence, Northeast Lakeview College combines innovative classroom instruction with hands-on experience to provide exemplary enrichment opportunities. As the newest community college in the nation, we provide a variety of degree plans, flexible course schedules, and a small, student-focused environment.

Public Relations
Publications
Congratulations Graduates 2019
Congratulations Graduates 2022
Congratulations Graduates 2023
Special Events
COVID-19 Information & Resources
Congratulations Graduates 2024

News and Events

The News and Events of NLC

Northeast Lakeview College

A center for educational excellence, Northeast Lakeview College combines innovative classroom instruction with hands-on experience to provide exemplary enrichment opportunities.

Campus Maps
NLC Calendar
Tools For School
Communication
Reading Comprehension

Problem Solving

Self-Efficacy
Time Management

Problem solving is central to success in any college course. Throughout their academic careers and their lives, students will encounter problems that need to be solved. These problems may range from the personal (how to pay for college) to the interpersonal (how to work with a partner on a project) to the occupational (how to solve an issue relating to school or work). Although every course requires students to engage in problem-solving, mathematics is a course that students readily associate with the task—the questions written on a whiteboard or on a page are more often than not math problems that need to be solved.

Although problem solving is a task that students engage in throughout their academic careers, they frequently have little experience in the metacognitive process of problem solving. Traditionally, students are taught subject-specific tools to apply to a subject-specific problem (example: how to add or how to use a dictionary) rather than problem solving strategies. This results in students who do not understand the process behind problem solving and has a direct impact on student success. Research indicates students who are successful problem solvers are those who are taught how to use and develop metacognitive problem-solving techniques and who engage in the deliberate and reflective process of problem solving (Mason et al.) Problem solving is a multi-step process that students must be taught and must have practice engaging in. Although multiple problem-solving processes exist, some more complex than others, most of them include variations of Polya’s four-stepped approach:

understanding--What is the problem? What is the purpose? What is known/ unknown?
planning--How does this connect to prior knowledge? Where are there gaps in knowledge? How to proceed?
solving--How to carry out the plan? Where to stop and check progress along the way?
reflection--Is the solution correct? What have I learned?

Students who are not college-ready in math struggle with problem-solving as a process. Often, they try to answer problems by using subject-specific tools like formulas or equations without stopping to understand the problem and engage in problem-solving. This results in students who frequently fail to arrive at a solution and end feeling defeated and demoralized about their success in math (Yuan 99). Students who are not college-ready in math benefit from being taught stepped problem-solving techniques and strategies, practicing those steps, and reflecting on their learning. Engaging in this process results in students who are able to make connections and understand the material that they otherwise would not (Yuan 99-104). Students in Soar Towards Success will be taught problem-solving strategies and engage in this metacognitive process. This practice will benefit students in all their courses and will help them develop the necessary readiness skills for their college-level math courses.

Our Mission

Using Games and Design Challenges to Teach Students About Managing Conflict

By introducing students to activities that scaffold conflict, teachers can provide low-stakes lessons to prepare kids to navigate it in healthy ways.

As second-grade teachers, we know that our students are exploring new relationships, changing social dynamics, and feeling the emotional weight that these interactions can have. Our students often encounter conflict as we ask them to take risks, stand up for what they believe in, and share their thoughts and opinions. With this in mind, we created and piloted a three-pronged hands-on approach to building both comfort and skills around managing conflict.

Our approach includes cooperative games and design challenges as well as good-to-know and problem jars. Each part is designed to allow our students to encounter consistent developmentally appropriate and varying types of conflict in order to build problem-solving skills. Throughout each activity, students are put in a variety of mixed groupings where they are confronted with increasingly complex challenges, last-minute changes, and peer leadership opportunities that shift the social dynamics. We are excited to share our approach and help other teachers implement these ideas.

The first few weeks of the year are all about community-building, developing routines, and getting to know our students better as people and learners. Cooperative games are a fantastic way to help students build relationships and begin to collaborate together as a group. As we thought through where we wanted to start, we knew that we wanted to focus on cooperative games that were easy to prepare, low cost, and easy to introduce and play quickly as either a whole or partial group. We wanted students to practice thinking flexibly, shifting roles, and finding success and failure collectively.

Some of our favorite games are the balloon challenge, the colored dots game, and the airplane game. While we introduced many of these games throughout the first semester, we revisited more complex versions, adjusted group sizes, and pushed our students to work through challenges with increasing independence as the year progressed.

Having had some experience with design challenges in the past, we knew that we could use them to push students in unique ways, and these activities tend to be excellent breeding grounds for conflict. We also love that they provide students an opportunity to work in small, fluid groupings and complete a challenge together using varying materials that are low cost and common.

Starting Point

To begin, students are introduced to the challenge and have a five-minute brainstorming period in which they create a plan as a group. After five minutes have lapsed, students then get their materials and begin creating for 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the challenge. There is never a winner who is celebrated or recognized; instead, we commend students for working together. Once the timer has ended, students reflect upon the process through both a group discussion and independently as part of an exit ticket.

Examples of design challenges that our students love are cup stacking, the Play-Doh–and–toothpick building challenge, and the egg-drop challenge . We found that both assigning leadership roles within their groups and increasing the difficulty level pushed students to overcome new challenges and discomfort. Feel free to be inspired by these activities, but change them as you see fit.

We know that effective assessment tools help drive instruction and build our understanding of our students’ feelings and needs. To this end, we created multiple types of both formal and informal assessments that can be completed quickly and easily to help maintain consistency and encourage our students to be reflective about themselves as problem solvers.

Our students fill out an exit ticket based on the Likert scale that allows us to track how their understanding of conflict has changed over time after engaging in both cooperative games and design challenges.

Checking In

Finally, we know that students love their teachers, seek their approval, and enjoy sharing what is going on in their own lives. The good-to-know jar and problem jar offer students a space where they can check in with their own emotional experiences, identities, and culture, and use their real-life problems to share what is on their mind and help them navigate tricky feelings that they may feel uncomfortable sharing verbally.

The two jars are accessible to students throughout the week. Students contribute to these jars anonymously, and each student is encouraged to submit either a good-to-know or a problem throughout the week. On Fridays, we read through the problem jar as a class and talk through possible solutions or just acknowledge that some problems can’t be solved right away but that by talking about them, we are communicating that we will work harder to figure out a plan together.

Giving students a space to see that we, as their teachers, take their thoughts and opinions seriously and then connect their problems with real, immediate action is important in encouraging our students to be problem solvers. We also ask our students to consider how they naturally approach and respond to conflict. Providing them with this opportunity for self-reflection allows them to identify their personal strengths and challenges. The better we know each other, the more comfortable we’ll be with sharing how we feel and engaging in productive conflict.

5 Essential skills students should know before going to college in 2024

Key takeaways.

College Success Blueprint: Mastering time management, communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and self-management skills equips students with the essential tools for thriving in college and beyond.
Time Management Mastery: Effective time management ensures students can balance academic and personal responsibilities, meet deadlines, and maintain a healthy work-life balance in the demanding college environment.
Skillful Adaptability: Developing adaptability alongside self-management skills enables students to navigate challenges, embrace change, and foster collaborative relationships, laying the groundwork for success in college and beyond.

Are you ready to take on the challenges of college in 2024? As you prepare for this exciting chapter of your academic journey , it is essential to equip yourself with the necessary skills to thrive in the college environment. But what are the key skills you need to know? And how can they help you succeed in college and beyond?

These skills are crucial for college preparation and ensuring success throughout your academic journey. By focusing on time management , communication skills , critical thinking , problem-solving , and self-management , you can equip yourself with the necessary tools to excel in college and beyond.

Mastering Time Management Skills for College Success

Effective time management is essential for college success. When you enter college, you'll be faced with numerous academic and personal responsibilities, all vying for your attention. Without proper time management skills , it can be challenging to meet deadlines, stay organized, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. That's why mastering time management is crucial for making the most of your college experience.

Here are some strategies and techniques that can help you manage your time effectively:

Set Priorities: Identify your most important tasks and allocate time accordingly. This will ensure that you focus on the tasks that require immediate attention.
Create Schedules: Plan your days, weeks, and months in advance. Use a planner or digital calendar to schedule classes, study time, extracurricular activities, and personal commitments.
Overcome Procrastination: Avoid putting off tasks until the last minute. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps, and set deadlines for each step to stay on track.
Stay Organized: Keep your study materials, assignments, and notes organized. Use folders or binders to store physical documents, and consider using productivity apps or online tools to manage digital files.

By implementing these time management strategies, you'll be better equipped to meet deadlines, balance your academic workload, and have time for extracurricular activities and personal leisure. Time management is not just about completing tasks but also about creating the space to enjoy your college journey and make the most of the opportunities available to you.

Remember, developing strong time management skills is an ongoing process. It may take time to find what techniques work best for you, but with dedication and practice , you can enhance your college experience and set yourself up for success .

7 Ways to Build Self-Discipline: Strategies for Success

Read article

Developing Strong Communication Skills for College Life

Effective communication skills are key to success in college, both inside and outside the classroom. Being able to express yourself clearly, collaborate with peers, engage in meaningful discussions, and build positive relationships with professors and classmates can greatly enhance your college experience. In this section, we will discuss the importance of communication skills and provide techniques to enhance your verbal, written, and interpersonal communication abilities.

The Importance of Effective Communication

Effective communication is essential for various aspects of college life. From participating in classroom discussions to presenting your ideas and arguments in assignments and projects, strong communication skills help you express yourself confidently and articulately. Additionally, effective communication is crucial in forming connections with professors, classmates, and other individuals on campus. Effective communication fosters collaboration, teamwork, and understanding, enabling you to work successfully on group projects and build a network of support .

Techniques for Enhancing Communication Skills

To develop strong communication skills, consider incorporating the following techniques into your college journey:

Active Listening: Pay attention to others when they speak, maintaining eye contact and showing genuine interest. Actively listening helps you understand different perspectives and respond appropriately.
Clarity in Verbal Communication: Use clear and concise language when speaking, avoiding jargon or complicated terminology. Organize your thoughts effectively and speak at an appropriate pace to ensure your message is understood.
Effective Writing: Practice writing in a clear, organized, and coherent manner. Pay attention to grammar, punctuation, and spelling to ensure that your written communication is professional and easily understood.
Nonverbal Communication: Be aware of your body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. Nonverbal cues can greatly impact how your message is received.
Interpersonal Skills : Learn to navigate social interactions, develop empathy , and build rapport. Developing strong interpersonal skills will help you establish and maintain positive relationships with professors, classmates, and colleagues.

By actively practicing and honing these techniques , you can progressively improve your communication skills throughout your college years. Remember that effective communication is a lifelong skill that extends beyond the college environment and will benefit you in your future career and personal relationships.

Cultivating Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Abilities in College

In college and beyond, critical thinking and problem-solving abilities are highly valued skills. These skills not only enhance your academic journey but also prepare you for real-world challenges. In this section, we will explore strategies that will help you cultivate these essential skills for success.

Analyzing Information

One of the key components of critical thinking is the ability to analyze information effectively. By learning to critically evaluate the reliability , credibility, and relevance of information, you can make informed decisions and avoid misinformation. Through practicing analysis, you will develop a discerning mindset that will benefit you in various academic and professional situations.

Evaluating Arguments

In college, you will encounter different perspectives and arguments. Developing the ability to evaluate arguments critically allows you to assess the strengths and weaknesses of each viewpoint. This skill not only helps you engage in thoughtful discussions but also enhances your ability to present well-supported arguments and form logical conclusions.

Solving Complex Problems

College often presents you with complex problems that require critical thinking and problem-solving skills . By understanding how to break down complex issues into manageable parts, you can approach problem-solving more effectively. Through practice and exposure to different problem-solving methodologies, you will become more adept at tackling challenging tasks and finding innovative solutions.

Making Informed Decisions

College is a time of important decision-making, both academically and personally. Developing critical thinking skills allows you to carefully evaluate options, consider potential consequences , and make informed decisions. By considering multiple perspectives , analyzing facts, and weighing the pros and cons, you can make choices that align with your goals and values.

By honing your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities in college, you will become a more independent and adaptable learner. These skills will not only help you navigate the academic environment with ease but also equip you with valuable tools for success in your future career. So, embrace opportunities to develop and apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills – they are key to your college success and beyond.

The Importance of Self-Management and Adaptability in College

Self-management and adaptability are essential skills for college success and beyond. As you navigate the challenges of college life, it is crucial to enhance your self-discipline , motivation , and resilience to thrive in a demanding academic environment .

Developing self-management skills allows you to effectively organize your time, set priorities, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. By creating a schedule and adhering to it, you can ensure that you allocate enough time to your academic responsibilities, extracurricular activities, and personal well-being .

Moreover, motivation plays a vital role in overcoming obstacles and staying focused. Cultivating self-motivation allows you to stay driven and engaged as you pursue your academic goals. Finding your sources of inspiration and implementing strategies that boost your motivation can help you maintain momentum even in the face of challenges.

Resilience is another key aspect of self-management. College life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and developing resilience enables you to bounce back from setbacks and adapt to new situations. It encompasses the ability to effectively handle stress , manage conflicts, and embrace changes.

In addition to self-management, adaptability is crucial for college success. As a college student, you will encounter various academic and social situations that require flexibility and the ability to navigate new environments. Adapting to new situations enhances your problem-solving skills , critical thinking abilities, and creativity.

By developing adaptability skills , you become better equipped to overcome challenges and seize opportunities . You cultivate an open mind, embrace diverse perspectives, and become more comfortable with change. Adaptability also fosters collaboration and effective communication with peers and professors, enabling you to thrive in group projects and discussions.

In summary , self-management and adaptability are vital skills for college students. By enhancing self-discipline , motivation , and resilience , you can effectively manage your time, balance your commitments, and navigate the ups and downs of college life. Being adaptable allows you to embrace change, develop problem-solving abilities, and foster collaborative relationships. Cultivating these skills will not only benefit you academically but also equip you with valuable life skills that extend beyond college.

Top 5 self-motivation techniques for academic success

In conclusion, mastering the five essential skills of time management, communication skills, critical thinking, problem-solving, and self-management is crucial for students preparing to enter college in 2024. These skills will not only enhance your academic journey but also equip you with valuable life skills that will benefit you beyond college.

By effectively managing your time, you can stay organized, meet deadlines, and balance your academic and personal responsibilities. Developing strong communication skills will allow you to express yourself clearly, collaborate with peers, and build positive relationships . Cultivating critical thinking and problem-solving abilities will enable you to analyze information, make informed decisions, and navigate challenges with ease.

Lastly, investing in self-management and adaptability skills will help you manage stress , stay motivated, and thrive in the college environment. These skills are not only essential for college success, but they will also shape your future success in life. Start cultivating these skills now to secure a bright future in college and beyond.

Author: Melody Reyes

Posted: 09 May 2024

Estimated time to read: 13 mins

Learn more about Satchel Pulse in your district

Browse topics.

Social emotional learning (92)
School Climate (53)
Teacher Retention (30)
Behavior (23)

Subscribe to Email Updates

Success with skills.

Get tailored SEL skill-building for individual student needs and readiness.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Issues We Care About

Digital Divide
Affordability
College Readiness
Environmental Barriers

Measuring Impact

WGU's Success Metrics
Policy Priorities
Annual Report
WGU's Story
Careers at WGU
Impact Blog

Addressing Workforce Gaps through Adult Education

WGU In Your State
See More Tags

This post is adapted from a presentation given by Dr. Emily Riner, Government Relations Director, WGU at the 2024 NLGA Spring Meeting

Workforce shortages are plaguing our states. From nursing to accounting, supply chain to cybersecurity, and the perennial teacher crisis, these shortages are more than just statistics; they affect our families and communities deeply.

Some College, No Degree and a Big Opportunity

As we look at the data, a concerning trend emerges. While traditional higher education institutions cater well to the 18–24 age group, more than 40 million adults over 25 with some college experience find themselves without a degree or credential. These adult learners have invested significant time and money but have little to show for it.

So, what could be done to solve this crisis? The solution may be found in the way we offer higher education.

Meeting the Needs of Adult Learners

College largely wasn’t built for adults. To effectively serve adult learners, we must rethink traditional educational models.

Flexibility, affordability, relevance and accessibility are paramount.

With so many other responsibilities to juggle from caregiving to full-time work, adult learners also need personalized support from enrollment to graduation. Tailored assistance helps them persist and earn their degrees.

Adult learners are savvy, and they expect respect, personalization and support as part of their learning experience.

How WGU Is Leading the Way

Western Governors University (WGU) was founded in 1997 to address workforce needs, and we’re leading the charge in catering to adult learners today. How? A personalized learning experience highlighted by the following elements:

Competency-based education Competency-based education measures skills and learning rather than time spent in a classroom. Students earn competency units (the equivalent of credit hours) when they demonstrate their skills through completing assessments. Rather than advancing only when the semester or term ends, students progress through courses as soon as they’ve proven mastery. This means they can earn a credential on their time and use their existing skills to graduate more quickly. Since WGU charges flat-rate tuition per term instead of per credit hour, learners who finish faster can earn their degrees for less.

Enrollment counselors From day one, students who are interested in WGU get one-on-one support, starting with enrollment counselors . These counselors guide prospective students through the whole process, talking with them to understand their unique goals and helping them get enrolled quickly.

Program mentors Personalized student support continues after enrollment with program mentors . These mentors check in with students weekly to ensure they’re feeling comfortable as they work through their online coursework. While WGU students study online, they’re never alone. Program mentors help students craft a custom degree plan with pacing that fits individual circumstances, and they provide accountability and motivation to keep students going.

Course instructors WGU course instructors are very accessible and ready to help learners progress through the course material. Students can easily schedule time to meet with them one-on-one or participate in cohort groups.

Learner Care Dashboard WGU developed a Learner Care Dashboard that automatically alerts faculty members when a student may need individualized support, such as if they failed an assessment or haven’t logged into their coursework for a while.

Instead of waiting for a student to reach out for help, WGU faculty members proactively connect with struggling students, quickly making plans and offering support to get them back on track.

Personalized on-time-completion rate WGU tracks more than graduation rates. We hold ourselves to an even higher standard by measuring the percentage of students who complete their credential at their personalized pace. A focus on helping students graduate supports our learners in their goals and helps us ensure our degrees are providing value, fast.

Personalized learning at WGU means we honor students’ investments, personalize a learning experience to their needs, focus on their learning, and cultivate connections.

Policy recommendations: What can state governments do?

To support adult learners and address workforce shortages, implementing policies such as adult learner grants, alternative pathways, workforce training expansion, and expanding support for competency-based education is imperative. Currently, only around 30% of states have adult learner aid available. This needs to change if we are to fill workforce gaps and increase the number of adults who have completed college degrees.

To solve the crisis, state officials and policymakers should consider the workforce needs in their state and work toward finding tangible steps to support adult learners. Together, we can unlock their potential and build a stronger, more resilient workforce for the future.

States with Student Aid for Adult Learners

30% of states have adult learner aid available including: Alabama, California, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West Virginia

Ready to Start Your Journey?

HEALTH & NURSING

Revolutionizing Career Readiness: The Role of Tech in Work-Based Learning Programs

Addressing Workforce Gaps through Adult Education

Types of Supply Chain Management Software: An In-Depth Guide

Top Qualities And Skills Of A Good Teacher

4 Jobs for People Who Like Problem-Solving

IgnitED: Rethinking Financial Aid Amid a Changing Higher Ed Landscape

The university.

Accessibility
Accreditation

For Students

Student Portal
Alumni Services

IMAGES

8 Important Problem Solving Skills
examples of problems solving skills
Problem Solving Scenarios For College Students
15 Ways to Learn How to Improve Problem Solving Skills
Problem Solving Activities: 7 Strategies
What Are Problem-Solving Skills? (Examples Included)

VIDEO

Problem Solving Techniques
Problem-Solving Skills For University Success
How To Develop Analytical & Problem Solving Skills ?
5 STRATEGIES TO IMPROVE YOUR PROBLEM SOLVING SKILLS
Tips to Solving Problems Effective
Types of Problem solving And purpose

COMMENTS

Essential Problem Solving Skills For College Life
Flickr.com. Another great problem solving skill is using process of elimination to eliminate possible solutions to a problem that might not make sense. Like on an exam where choices might be unfitting for the question, there are answers, or solutions to problems that might not be applicable to the given situation.
Teaching Problem Solving
Problem solving is a necessary skill in all disciplines and one that the Sheridan Center is focusing on as part of the Brown Learning Collaborative, which provides students the opportunity to achieve new levels of excellence in six key skills traditionally honed in a liberal arts education - critical reading, writing, research, data ...
Problem Solving in STEM
Problem Solving in STEM. Solving problems is a key component of many science, math, and engineering classes. If a goal of a class is for students to emerge with the ability to solve new kinds of problems or to use new problem-solving techniques, then students need numerous opportunities to develop the skills necessary to approach and answer ...
Teaching Problem Solving
Make students articulate their problem solving process . In a one-on-one tutoring session, ask the student to work his/her problem out loud. This slows down the thinking process, making it more accurate and allowing you to access understanding. When working with larger groups you can ask students to provide a written "two-column solution.".
7 Important Problem Solving Skills
By College Raptor Staff Published on November 6, 2023. Critical thinking, research, creativity, analytical skills, communication skills, decision-making skills, and adaptability are the 7 most important problem-solving skills you need to succeed personally and professionally. You'll likely hear the term 'problem-solving skills' tossed ...
Problem-Solving Skills for University Success
After completing this course, you will be able to: 1. Recognise the importance and function of problem solving and creative thought within academic study and the role of critical thought in creative ideation. 2. Develop a toolkit to be able to identify real problems and goals within ill-defined problems 3.
7.5 Problem-Solving
Our mission is to improve educational access and learning for everyone. OpenStax is part of Rice University, which is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit. Give today and help us reach more students. This free textbook is an OpenStax resource written to increase student access to high-quality, peer-reviewed learning materials.
Problem-Solving
They both refer to using knowledge, facts, and data to solve problems effectively. But with problem-solving, you are specifically identifying, selecting, and defending your solution. Below are some examples of using critical thinking to problem-solve: Your roommate was upset and said some unkind words to you, which put a crimp in the relationship.
4 Strategies to Build Your Students' Problem Solving Skills
Here are a few effective strategies: Project-Based Learning: Projects that require planning, execution, and evaluation naturally involve problem-solving. For example, a project where students need to build a model bridge within a budget encourages them to solve logistical and financial problems. Group Work: Group work allows students to face ...
4.6 Problem-Solving
The most effective problem-solving approach includes some variation of the following steps: Determine the issue (s) Recognize other perspectives. Think of multiple possible results. Research and evaluate the possibilities. Select the best result (s) Communicate your findings. Establish logical action items based on your analysis.
Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving
In fact, critical thinking and problem-solving go hand-in-hand. They both refer to using knowledge, facts, and data to solve problems effectively, but with problem-solving, you are specifically identifying, selecting, and defending your solution. Applying the strategies described in the action checklist below can help you utilize critical ...
3 Ways to Improve Student Problem-Solving
3. Three-Act Tasks: Originally created by Dan Meyer, three-act tasks follow the three acts of a story. The first act is typically called the "setup," followed by the "confrontation" and then the "resolution.". This storyline process can be used in mathematics in which students encounter a contextual problem (e.g., a pool is being ...
Why Every Educator Needs to Teach Problem-Solving Skills
Resolve Conflicts. In addition to increased social and emotional skills like self-efficacy and goal-setting, problem-solving skills teach students how to cooperate with others and work through disagreements and conflicts. Problem-solving promotes "thinking outside the box" and approaching a conflict by searching for different solutions.
Empowering College Students' Problem-Solving Skills through RICOSRE
to help students develop their problem-solving skills, as each individual needs these skills to deal with complex and multidimensional challenges. Educ. Sci. 2022 , 12 , 196 15 of 17
Brilliant
Guided interactive problem solving that's effective and fun. Master concepts in 15 minutes a day. ... Students and professionals alike can hone dormant skills or learn new ones. ... and build your problem solving skills one concept at a time. Stay motivated. Form a real learning habit with fun content that's always well-paced, game-like ...
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
Students need to "develop and effectively apply critical thinking skills to their academic studies, to the complex problems that they will face, and to the critical choices they will be forced to make as a result of the information explosion and other rapid technological changes" (Oliver & Utermohlen, p. 1 ).
Empowering College Students' Problem-Solving Skills through RICOSRE
Problem-solving skills are advantageous when resolving complicated and multidimensional challenges. Problem-solving skills can be developed through active learning models that engage students in the learning process. One active learning model is RICOSRE. The main focus of RICOSRE is problem-solving activities in (1) reading; (2) identifying the problem; (3) constructing the solution; (4 ...
Don't Just Tell Students to Solve Problems. Teach Them How
The UC San Diego problem-solving curriculum, Mjahed noted, is an opportunity for students to build the skills and the confidence to learn from their failures and to work outside their comfort zone. "And from there, they see pathways to real careers," he said. Jennifer Ogo, a teacher from Kearny High School, taught the problem-solving course ...
PDF Empowering College Students Problem-Solving Skills through RICOSRE
Educ. Sci.2022, 12, 196 3 of 17. RICOSRE learning syntax has many advantages: it can help students develop their creative thinking skills through various problem-solving tasks. Reading is the ﬁrst stage in the RICOSRE learning model. Through reading, RICOSRE enables pupils to acquire higher-order thinking skills.
Academic Problems and Skills
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: Over time, students may forget the details of what they formally studied. However, the ability to think critically allows one to learn efficiently, identify ...
Problem Solving
Problem solving is central to success in any college course. Throughout their academic careers and their lives, students will encounter problems that need to be solved. These problems may range from the personal (how to pay for college) to the interpersonal (how to work with a partner on a project) to the occupational (how to solve an issue ...
What Are Problem-Solving Skills? Definition and Examples
Problem-solving skills are the ability to identify problems, brainstorm and analyze answers, and implement the best solutions. An employee with good problem-solving skills is both a self-starter and a collaborative teammate; they are proactive in understanding the root of a problem and work with others to consider a wide range of solutions ...
Building Students' Problem-Solving Skills
Our approach includes cooperative games and design challenges as well as good-to-know and problem jars. Each part is designed to allow our students to encounter consistent developmentally appropriate and varying types of conflict in order to build problem-solving skills. Throughout each activity, students are put in a variety of mixed groupings ...
Data Science skills 101: How to solve any problem
Cognitive Problem solving skills analytical and creative thinking were the top two in demand skills of 2023 and are also the top two skills predicted to grow in importance in the future. Source: World Economic Forum. Future of Jobs report 2023. Surprisingly, there's a lack of guidance on how to enhance this skill, despite its growing ...
5 Essential skills students should know before going to college in 2024
Conclusion. In conclusion, mastering the five essential skills of time management, communication skills, critical thinking, problem-solving, and self-management is crucial for students preparing to enter college in 2024. These skills will not only enhance your academic journey but also equip you with valuable life skills that will benefit you beyond college.
Best practices in college student interview preparation
Students may also need help navigating screening or group interviews, as well. Videotape the experience. By setting up a camera or a video session, career centers give students the ability to record the interview and watch it back, self-critique, and improve their skills. Provide a guide.
Addressing Workforce Gaps through Adult Education
Competency-based education measures skills and learning rather than time spent in a classroom. Students earn competency units (the equivalent of credit hours) when they demonstrate their skills through completing assessments. ... 4 Jobs for People Who Like Problem-Solving. Dive into careers ideal for problem-solving enthusiasts. Explore these ...

GA4 Tracking Code

fa51e2b1dc8cca8f7467da564e77b5ea

For more information...

Center for Teaching

Tips and Techniques

Encourage Independence

Be sensitive

Encourage Thoroughness and Patience

Teaching Guides

Quick Links

7.5 Problem-Solving

Determining the Best Approach

Generating Multiple Solutions

4.6 Problem-Solving

Determining the Best Approach

Generating Multiple Solutions

Share This Book

Chapter 8: Thinking, Communicating & Problem-Solving

Critical Thinking

What Is Critical Thinking?

The Role of Logic in Critical Thinking

Clarify Thinking

Avoid Fallacies

Applying critical thinking

Problem-Solving with Critical Thinking

Developing Yourself As a Critical Thinker and Problem-Solver

Reflect on Critical Thinking

Cultivate Critical Habits of Mind

problem-solving with critical thinking

Why Every Educator Needs to Teach Problem-Solving Skills

Want to learn more about how to measure and teach students’ higher-order skills, including problem solving, critical thinking, and written communication?

Problem-Solving Skills Help Students…

Set and Achieve Goals

Resolve Conflicts

Achieve Success

Problem-Solving Skills Can Be Measured and Taught

What Are Performance-Based Assessments?

Preview a Performance-Based Assessment

Performance-Based Assessments Help Students Build and Practice Problem-Solving Skills

Explore CAE’s Problem-Solving Assessments

Ready to Get Started?

Don’t Just Tell Students to Solve Problems. Teach Them How.

Published Date

Not getting stuck

What does it mean to explicitly teach problem solving?

Portrait of the Problem-Solving Curriculum

You May Also Like

Campus & Community

Academic Problems and Skills

Admissions & Aid

Experience NLC

News and Events

Northeast Lakeview College

Problem Solving

Using Games and Design Challenges to Teach Students About Managing Conflict

Starting Point

Checking In

5 Essential skills students should know before going to college in 2024

Mastering Time Management Skills for College Success

Developing Strong Communication Skills for College Life

The Importance of Effective Communication

Techniques for Enhancing Communication Skills

Cultivating Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Abilities in College

Analyzing Information

Evaluating Arguments

Solving Complex Problems

Making Informed Decisions

The Importance of Self-Management and Adaptability in College

Learn more about Satchel Pulse in your district

Recent posts

Subscribe to Email Updates

Some College, No Degree and a Big Opportunity

Meeting the Needs of Adult Learners

How WGU Is Leading the Way

Policy recommendations: What can state governments do?

States with Student Aid for Adult Learners

HEALTH & NURSING

Revolutionizing Career Readiness: The Role of Tech in Work-Based Learning Programs

Addressing Workforce Gaps through Adult Education

Types of Supply Chain Management Software: An In-Depth Guide