how to improve problem solving skills in students

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Strategies to develop problem-solving skills in students.

• November 14, 2023

Students need the freedom to brainstorm, develop solutions and make mistakes — this is truly the only way to prepare them for life outside the classroom. When students are immersed in a learning environment that only offers them step-by-step guides and encourages them to focus solely on memorisation, they are not gaining the skills necessary to help them navigate in the complex, interconnected environment of the real world.

Choosing a school that emphasises the importance of future-focussed skills will ensure your child has the abilities they need to survive and thrive anywhere in the world. What are future-focussed skills? Students who are prepared for the future need to possess highly developed communication skills, self-management skills, research skills, thinking skills, social skills and problem-solving skills. In this blog, I would like to focus on problem-solving skills.

What Are Problem-Solving Skills?

The Forage defines problem-solving skills as those that allow an individual to identify a problem, come up with solutions, analyse the options and collaborate to find the best solution for the issue.

Importance of Problem-Solving in the Classroom Setting

Learning how to solve problems effectively and positively is a crucial part of child development. When children are allowed to solve problems in a classroom setting, they can test those skills in a safe and nurturing environment. Generally, when they face age-appropriate issues, they can begin building those skills in a healthy and positive manner.

Without exposure to challenging situations and scenarios, children will not be equipped with the foundational problem-solving skills needed to tackle complex issues in the real world. Experts predict that problem-solving skills will eventually be more sought after in job applicants than hard skills related to that specific profession. Students must be given opportunities in school to resolve conflicts, address complex problems and come up with their own solutions in order to develop these skills.

Benefits of Problem-Solving Skills for Students

Learning how to solve problems offers students many advantages, such as:

Improving Academic Results

When students have a well-developed set of problem-solving skills, they are often better critical and analytical thinkers as well. They are able to effectively use these 21st-century skills when completing their coursework, allowing them to become more successful in all academic areas. By prioritising problem-solving strategies in the classroom, teachers often find that academic performance improves.

Developing Confidence

Giving students the freedom to solve problems and create their own solutions is essentially permitting them to make their own choices. This sense of independence — and the natural resilience that comes with it — allows students to become confident learners who aren’t intimidated by new or challenging situations. Ultimately, this prepares them to take on more complex challenges in the future, both on a professional and social level.

Preparing Students for Real-World Challenges

The challenges we are facing today are only growing more complex, and by the time students have graduated, they are going to be facing issues that we may not even have imagined. By arming them with real-world problem-solving experience, they will not feel intimidated or stifled by those challenges; they will be excited and ready to address them. They will know how to discuss their ideas with others, respect various perspectives and collaborate to develop a solution that best benefits everyone involved.

The Best Problem-Solving Strategies for Students

No single approach or strategy will instil a set of problem-solving skills in students.  Every child is different, so educators should rely on a variety of strategies to develop this core competency in their students.  It is best if these skills are developed naturally.

These are some of the best strategies to support students problem-solving skills:

Project-Based Learning

By providing students with project-based learning experiences and allowing plenty of time for discussion, educators can watch students put their problem-solving skills into action inside their classrooms. This strategy is one of the most effective ways to fine-tune problem-solving skills in students.  During project-based learning, teachers may take notes on how the students approach a problem and then offer feedback to students for future development. Teachers can address their observations of interactions during project-based learning at the group level or they can work with students on an individual basis to help them become more effective problem-solvers.

Encourage Discussion and Collaboration in the Classroom Setting

Another strategy to encourage the development of problem-solving skills in students is to allow for plenty of discussion and collaboration in the classroom setting.  When students interact with one another, they are naturally developing problem solving skills.  Rather than the teacher delivering information and requiring the students to passively receive information, students can share thoughts and ideas with one another.  Getting students to generate their own discussion and communication requires thinking skills. 

Utilising an Inquiry-Based approach to Learning

Students should be presented with situations in which their curiosity is sparked and they are motivated to inquire further. Teachers should ask open-ended questions and encourage students to develop responses which require problem-solving. By providing students with complex questions for which a variety of answers may be correct, teachers get students to consider different perspectives and deal with potential disagreement, which requires problem-solving skills to resolve.

Model Appropriate Problem-Solving Skills

One of the simplest ways to instil effective problem-solving skills in students is to model appropriate and respectful strategies and behaviour when resolving a conflict or addressing an issue. Teachers can showcase their problem-solving skills by:

• Identifying a problem when they come across one for the class to see
• Brainstorming possible solutions with students
• Collaborating with students to decide on the best solution
• Testing that solution and examining the results with the students
• Adapting as necessary to improve results or achieve the desired goal

Prioritise Student Agency in Learning

Recent research shows that self-directed learning is one of the most effective ways to nurture 21st-century competency development in young learners. Learning experiences that encourage student agency often require problem-solving skills.  When creativity and innovation are needed, students often encounter unexpected problems along the way that must be solved. Through self-directed learning, students experience challenges in a natural situation and can fine-tune their problem-solving skills along the way.  Self-directed learning provides them with a foundation in problem-solving that they can build upon in the future, allowing them to eventually develop more advanced and impactful problem-solving skills for real life.

21st-Century Skill Development at OWIS Singapore

Problem-solving has been identified as one of the core competencies that young learners must develop to be prepared to meet the dynamic needs of a global environment.  At OWIS Singapore, we have implemented an inquiry-driven, skills-based curriculum that allows students to organically develop critical future-ready skills — including problem-solving.  Our hands-on approach to education enables students to collaborate, explore, innovate, face-challenges, make mistakes and adapt as necessary.  As such, they learn problem-solving skills in an authentic manner.

For more information about 21st-century skill development, schedule a campus tour today.

About Author

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How to Inspire Students Through Problem Solving

Date October 24, 2024

Est. Reading Time 3 mins

Learning isn’t linear. It’s a dynamic, ongoing and intuitive process for students to think outside the box, arrive at new conclusions and cultivate effective solutions for real-world challenges.

Educators know there isn’t just one path to inspiring problem solving in the classroom. Because children are inherently creative, their limitless imagination gives them a greater likelihood of producing innovative ideas free from restriction or self-doubt. Teachers can help students achieve creative problem-solving skills by pairing their natural curiosity with hands-on STEM experiences.

Take a look at these helpful tips to inspire your students through problem solving and encourage independent, critical thinking.

Tips for Inspiring Student Problem Solving

1. ask open-ended questions.

Children are masters of making candid observations. By asking open-ended questions, educators empower students to arrive at their own conclusions.

For example, if a student presents a problem they haven’t yet solved, a thoughtful response might sound like, “What’s working well here? What if there was a different way to look at this problem? How could you carry this idea throughout your project?” Or perhaps best of all – “What will happen if you follow your instincts?” These types of open-ended questions create space for student ideation and support autonomous learning, giving children ownership over their ideas.

2. Promote Authentic Problem Solving

Educator Rich Lehrer says that creating an authentic approach to problem solving involves making real-world connections. While hypotheticals are great to consider, students respond well to challenges they can identify in their daily lives.

Authentic problem solving adds meaningful context to everyday challenges, making STEM topics less abstract and more relatable. By putting meaningful problem solving at the heart of using technology for good, Lehrer inspires the next generation of inventors to make positive changes in the world.

3. Build Persistence

“Mistakes are proof that you are trying!” Does this phrase sound familiar? Problem solving is often a trial-and-error process. When students are given project-based learning opportunities, they lean into the power of persistence. There’s nothing quite like the moment when a student brings their ideas to life.

Positive reinforcement from enthusiastic educators and peers is a sure way to build resilient, confident and competent creators. Another great way to demonstrate the power of perseverance is to introduce innovative role models. For instance, persistent innovators like National Inventors Hall of Fame ® Inductees are ideal role models who will spark inspiration!

4. Incorporate Invention Education

Invention education is an inspired approach to learning that fosters creative problem solving and builds confidence in STEM subjects through the hands-on act of invention. Students test prototypes, revise their designs and troubleshoot any existing flaws.

For more than 30 years, the National Inventors Hall of Fame has been developing invention education programs that provide unique experiential learning opportunities. These programs help students develop the I Can Invent ® Mindset – the same powerful mindset National Inventors Hall of Fame Inductees have used to develop world-changing solutions. The Hall of Fame’s approach to invention education creates an environment that welcomes innovative thinkers and supports collaboration as students design new and unique solutions for modern challenges.

Learn More Ways to Inspire and Empower Students

Teachers are often children’s biggest advocates because they see and know their potential. By engaging children with authentic problem solving and instilling the confidence to find solutions, early STEM experiences lead to tangible life skills. The more educators across the country strive to foster classroom environments where every idea is valued and each student feels inspired to problem solve, the better the academic outcomes! To learn more, explore our website .

Related Articles

3 ways invention education boosts engagement, what is invention education an inspired approach to learning, why is chronic absenteeism on the rise, supporting family engagement with invention education.

Energized – Engaged – Empowered

Top 8 Proven Strategies for Developing Problem-Solving Skills in Students

Table of Contents

1. Follow the Process

2. review previous challenges, 3. implement “3 before me” rule, 4. enhance problem solving elements, 5. integrate psychological theories, 6. create an open environment, 7. be a good role model, 8. evaluate and share feedback, ishcmc – nurturing future problem solvers, 1. what are problem solving skills for students, 2. at what age do children start developing problem solving skills, 3. what are the benefits of problem solving skills for students.

This article explores eight proven strategies that enhance problem solving capabilities in students, gives problem solving skills examples for students , and provides a guide on how to improve problem solving skills in students .

Educators who use these strategies with their students can give them the knowledge and abilities to approach challenges bravely and creatively, establishing the foundation for lifelong learning and adaptability.

The problem solving process is a structured approach that systematically guides students to tackle challenges. It involves:

• Identifying the Problem: Clearly state the problem. What are you trying to solve? Be specific about the issue(s).
• Considering Different Perspectives: Practice active listening to understand various viewpoints.
• Brainstorming: Generate potential solutions without evaluation.
• Evaluating Options: Assess the pros and cons of each solution.
• Selecting the Best Solution: Choose the option with the highest potential for success and consider its consequences.
• Implementing the Decision: Develop a plan and execute it.
• Monitoring Progress: Track the implementation and adjust as necessary.

Encourage students to reflect on past experiences when they encountered similar problems. Students can draw from their previous solutions by asking themselves, “Have I ever seen a problem like this before?”. Self-reflection can promote self-reliance and build confidence in problem solving skills for students . When instructors have pupils journal their challenges and solutions, it can help speed up the process.

Additionally, discussing case studies or real-life examples in class allows students to apply their knowledge to new situations . Reviewing past challenges strengthens students’ problem solving abilities and helps them better understand how to approach various problem types.

Implementing the “3 Before Me” rule can foster a collaborative learning environment where students support each other in problem solving endeavors. Educators promote autonomy, resourcefulness, active peer learning, and communication by encouraging students to seek peer help with 3 classmates before approaching the teacher.

During class activities, teachers might model the application of this rule and explain its rationale.  Through the practice of “3 Before Me,” students can use their peers’ combined knowledge and experience, which improves their problem solving skills and builds a sense of support and community.

Provide kids with options in various circumstances to encourage them to make judgments . Let them weigh their advantages and disadvantages, stimulating critical thinking and decision-making skills.

Incorporate decision-making opportunities into everyday activities, such as selecting food or planning leisure activities. Students who participate in these exercises can improve their analytical skills and learn to predict the effects of their decisions.

Furthermore, educators can introduce structured decision-making frameworks, such as cost-benefit analysis or SWOT analysis, to provide students with a systematic approach to evaluating options. Only when educators empower students with these tools and methods can the students make informed decisions and efficiently overcome complicated challenges.

Integrating psychological theories into problem solving approaches can broaden students’ perspectives and enhance problem solving skills . For instance, the “psychological distancing” theory suggests detaching emotions from problem solving to facilitate objective analysis.

Educators can assist students in getting a better knowledge of underlying issues, seeking potential solutions, and eliminating the chances of biases or preferences by encouraging them to approach situations objectively.

Similarly, the “ heuristic framework ” can help students break down complex problems into manageable components, facilitating strategic planning and problem decomposition .

Educators can incorporate components of this framework, such as backward planning, into classroom activities to encourage students to approach problems systematically. By applying these theories in practical contexts, students can develop adaptable problem solving strategies across various domains and situations

Furthermore, educators can leverage established pedagogical frameworks, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme of ISHCMC, to promote critical thinking and problem solving skills for students . ISHCMC’s IB curriculum emphasizes inquiry-based learning, encouraging students to explore complex issues, ask probing questions, and develop analytical reasoning skills.

ISHCMC educators promote active learning by engaging students in inquiry-based activities, helping them develop a thorough comprehension of essential topics. The IB’s holistic approach to education also prioritizes the entire student body’s academic, emotional, and social growth.

Creating a supportive environment for students to express ideas freely fosters problem solving skills . Educators achieve this through open communication , risk-taking encouragement , and valuing diverse perspectives . With constructive comments and positive reinforcement, educators assist students in developing resilience and self-assurance when confronting obstacles.

Additionally, incorporating collaborative learning activities, such as group discussions and peer feedback sessions, can enhance problem solving skills by encouraging students to engage with different viewpoints and approaches . Educators create an open, non-critical setting to empower students to explore innovative solutions and develop creative problem solving strategies.

Educators, as role models, can significantly shape students’ problem solving skills through their behaviors and attitudes . By demonstrating effective techniques and decision-making processes, teachers offer effective guidance to students. Involving students in discussions and activities allows them to practice critical thinking and problemsolving in real-world scenarios.

For instance, educators can create opportunities for students to observe problem solving in action, such as case studies or simulations. By modeling structured problem solving approaches and offering feedback and encouragement, educators inspire students to develop their problem solving abilities and become confident, independent learners.

Educators should observe students’ problem solving processes, offer timely feedback , and encourage continuous reflection and improvement to identify strategies, specify areas for growth, and provide support.

Constructive feedback that highlights students’ strengths and areas for improvement helps refine their problem solving skills . A culture of ongoing feedback and reflection enables students to take responsibility for their education and develop the resilience and adaptability to navigate challenging situations effectively.

Through observation, assessment, and feedback, educators help students become competent and self-assured problem solvers.

How to teach problem solving skills for students is paramount in preparing them for the challenges they will encounter academically and in their future careers. By implementing proven strategies such as following a structured problem solving process, reviewing previous challenges , and encouraging an open and collaborative learning environment , educators can empower students to become confident and adept problem solvers.

At ISHCMC, we strive to nurture future problem solvers through our rigorous academic standards and holistic approach to education .

As the first fully authorized IB World School in Ho Chi Minh City , we provide students opportunities to develop their problem solving skills through inquiry-based learning, collaborative projects, and real-world applications .

Apply to ISHCMC today to nurture your children for success in a rapidly changing world!

FAQs on Problem Solving Skills for Students

Besides how to assess problem solving skills in students , and examples of problem solving skills for students , we will delve into other common questions about students’ problem solving skills for academic and personal growth.

Problem solving skills for students involve more than just applying learned procedures. entail understanding the environment, identifying complex problems, reviewing information, developing and evaluating strategies, and implementing solutions to achieve desired outcomes. True problem solving involves applying a method to a specific problem under certain conditions that the solver hasn’t encountered before.

Teaching problem solving should involve modeling effective methods, contextualizing skills within specific subjects, aiding students in problem understanding, allocating sufficient time for practice, and prompting analytical thinking through questions and suggestions while linking errors to misconceptions for learning.

This approach promotes critical thinking and decision-making abilities crucial for addressing genuine challenges.

Problem solving skills begin to develop around the age of 2 to 3 . By age three, children start to apply problem solving skills in particular situations. However, very young children’s problem solving skills are constrained by three factors: a short attention span, challenges in understanding cause-and-effect relationships, and lack of experience in tackling problems independently.

Such foundational skills continue to develop and become more sophisticated throughout childhood and adolescence. Influences such as education, personal experiences, and overall cognitive development shape and enhance problem solving abilities.

By adolescence, individuals usually have a more developed capacity to handle problems at a higher level of complexity, think critically, and come up with innovative solutions.

Problem solving skills offer numerous benefits for students:

• Improved Academic Performance: Enhance critical and analytical thinking, improving academic results across subjects.
• Increased Confidence: Encourage independence, fostering resilient learners unafraid of challenges, preparing them for future complexities.
• Real-World Preparedness: Equip students to tackle evolving challenges by fostering collaboration, respect for diverse perspectives, and innovative problem solving approaches.
• Distinguishing Between Issues: Help differentiate solvable problems from unsolvable ones, promoting effective decision-making.
• Enhanced Understanding: Encourage deeper comprehension of causality, fostering resilience and adaptability.
• Social and Situational Awareness: Promote better time management, patience, curiosity, resourcefulness, and determination.
• Employability: Develop essential skills for working in teams, adapting to new and unique challenges, and meeting employer demands.

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