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Show 2 Standard-Examin- er and Lakeside Review, Tuesday, April 10, 1990 Define the problem D.A. Norman, a psychologist, thinks that human beings process information in three stages. As you can see from this Contents model diagram, this process is similar to the way a computer Problems Analysis Information Process Strategies Graphic organizers . 8 10' Invention 11 Improvement 12 Output 13 14 15 16 . . is "processing," you continue to focus on the problem and begin to think of options and alternatives, keeping your mind open to all the possible 9 . stage situation, gather information, and ask questions of yourself. In the second stage, 7 Relevance Conclusion "input." This stage involves defining the problem. In order to accomplish that, you must analyze the The first 4 5 6 Input Judgments Setting standards works with information. 2 3 Introduction solutions. the third and final stage. At this point you "Output" is evaluate the various options. You select the best option and come up with a plan of action a plan that, when carried will get rid of the problem once and for all. out, Start here! Tips for solving problems Find out how you rate as a problem solver Of course, there are no correct or incorrect answers to these questions. But, if you thought some of your answers h indicated that you are not a problem solver, here are some tips for improvement. Successful problem solvers: Read slowly and carefully, and then review what theyve just read, looking carefully for important ideas and key concepts. Recall similar problems they have solved successfully in the past. Proceed slowly, step by step, gradually setting up a reasonable plan of attack. Apply a range of proven strategies to get closer to a solution. This may include drawing a picture or looking for a pattern. Sometimes breaking the problem into smaller pieces helps. Stop every so often to ask themselves: How is everything going? Am I making progress? Should I rethink my plan of action? Evaluate the solution to the problem by asking themselves: Is this answer reasonable? Is it accurate? Does it make sense? Before you begin to learn more about problem 'solving, lets see what you already know about the process. Answer the following questions honestly. This isnt a quiz. It is a beginning point, a way to start thinking about what it means to be an effective problem solver. Discuss your responses with your classmates. 1. Do you act upon the very first potential solution that pops into your head? 2. Do you gather few, if any, facts before actively working on a problem? 3. Do you tackle a problem without any overall plan in mind? 4. When brainstorming ideas in a group, are you the person who says, No way! That will never work? 5. When a problem occurs in your life, is your first instinct to take a long nap, hoping somehow it will all disappear? 6. Do you give up at the first sign of frustration? 7. When its time to make a decision, do you rely on others to do it for you? top-notc- You will have many opportunities to practice your problem solving skills as you work through this supplement. These tips may help. |