Developing Real-Life Problem-Solving Skills Through Situational Design

• In Event: Design Approaches Across Ages

Abstract

Current problem-solving research has advanced our understanding of the problem-solving process but has provided little advice on how to teach problem-solving skills. In addition, literature reveals that individual difference is an essential issue in problem-solving skills instruction but has been rarely addressed in current research. This article proposed an instructional design model as an approach to accommodate individual difference in problem-solving skills instruction. This design model was further examined with a pilot study and results showed a significant difference in students’ performance and problem-solving skills, especially non-recurrent skills. The study contributes to the field by providing a novel lens to interpret problem-solving skills and assisting in the design that aims to develop student’s expertise in solving real world problems.

Author

• Lin Zhong, Southern Illinois University - Carbondale
  Presenting Author