Problem Solving
Decision-Making & Problem Solving
“Thinking is any mental activity that helps formulate or solve a problem, make a decision, or fulfill a desire to understand. It is a searching for answers, a reaching for meaning.” –Vincent Ryan Ruggiero * Develop evidence to support views * Analyze situations carefully * Discuss subjects in an organized way * Predict the consequences of actions * Weigh alternatives * Generate and organize ideas * Form and apply concepts * Design systematic plans of action
A 5 Step Problem Solving Strategy 1. Specify the problem – the first step to solving a problem is to identify it as specifically as possible. It involves evaluating the present state and determining how it differs from the goal state. 2. Analyze the problem - analyzing the problem involves learning as much as you can about it. It may be necessary to look beyond the obvious, surface situation, to stretch your imagination and reach for more creative options. * seek other perspectives (ask other people there opinion) * be flexible in your analysis * consider various strands of impact * brainstorm about all possibilities and implications (use some brainstorm activities) * Research problems for which you lack complete information. Get help. 3. Formulate possible solutions - identify a wide range of possible solutions. * try to think of all possible solutions * be creative use your imagination * Consider past similar problems and how you have solved them, not saying that you have to use the same solution, but can be helpful. 4. Evaluate possible solutions - weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each solution. Think through each solution and consider how, when, and where you could accomplish each. Consider both immediate and long-term results. Mapping your solutions can be helpful at this stage. 5. Choose a solution - consider 3 factors: * compatibility
“Thinking is any mental activity that helps formulate or solve a problem, make a decision, or fulfill a desire to understand. It is a searching for answers, a reaching for meaning.” –Vincent Ryan Ruggiero * Develop evidence to support views * Analyze situations carefully * Discuss subjects in an organized way * Predict the consequences of actions * Weigh alternatives * Generate and organize ideas * Form and apply concepts * Design systematic plans of action
A 5 Step Problem Solving Strategy 1. Specify the problem – the first step to solving a problem is to identify it as specifically as possible. It involves evaluating the present state and determining how it differs from the goal state. 2. Analyze the problem - analyzing the problem involves learning as much as you can about it. It may be necessary to look beyond the obvious, surface situation, to stretch your imagination and reach for more creative options. * seek other perspectives (ask other people there opinion) * be flexible in your analysis * consider various strands of impact * brainstorm about all possibilities and implications (use some brainstorm activities) * Research problems for which you lack complete information. Get help. 3. Formulate possible solutions - identify a wide range of possible solutions. * try to think of all possible solutions * be creative use your imagination * Consider past similar problems and how you have solved them, not saying that you have to use the same solution, but can be helpful. 4. Evaluate possible solutions - weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each solution. Think through each solution and consider how, when, and where you could accomplish each. Consider both immediate and long-term results. Mapping your solutions can be helpful at this stage. 5. Choose a solution - consider 3 factors: * compatibility