scholarly journals Understanding adults’ strong problem-solving skills based on PIAAC

2017 ◽  
Vol 29 (7/8) ◽  
pp. 537-553 ◽  
Author(s):  
Raija Hämäläinen ◽  
Bram De Wever ◽  
Kari Nissinen ◽  
Sebastiano Cincinnato
Keyword(s):  
Problem Solving ◽  
Everyday Life ◽  
Continuous Process ◽  
Vocational Education And Training ◽  
Problem Solving Skills ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Work Related ◽  
Problem Solvers ◽  
Insight Into ◽  
Good Problem

Purpose Research has shown that the problem-solving skills of adults with a vocational education and training (VET) background in technology-rich environments (TREs) are often inadequate. However, some adults with a VET background do have sound problem-solving skills. The present study aims to provide insight into the socio-demographic, work-related and everyday life factors that are associated with a strong problem-solving performance. Design/methodology/approach The study builds on large-scale data of the Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC) and gives insight into VET adults (N = 12,929) with strong problem-solving skills in 11 European countries. Findings This study introduces new knowledge with respect to the socio-demographic, work-related and everyday life background factors that contribute to successful VET adults’ problem-solving skills. The findings of the authors illustrate that a continuous process of development including non-formal and informal activity, as well as learning taking place at work, is associated with strong performance in problem-solving skills in TRE. Research limitations/implications An important implication of this study is that this paper introduces novel knowledge for VET adults’ competences and can be used to support the development of VET adults’ problem-solving skills in TREs. Originality/value The study was conducted to explore new understanding about good problem-solvers in TREs with a VET background. The originality of the study derives from its focus on good problem-solvers in TREs related to a VET background. The findings can be used to create novel ways to enhance the development of VET adults’ problem-solving skills in TREs.

Good problem solvers? Leveraging knowledge sharing mechanisms and management support

2019 ◽  
Vol 23 (6) ◽  
pp. 1017-1038 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ambra Galeazzo ◽  
Andrea Furlan
Keyword(s):  
Transformational Leadership ◽  
Problem Solving ◽  
Knowledge Sharing ◽  
Hierarchical Linear Modeling ◽  
Shop Floor ◽  
Management Support ◽  
Linear Modeling ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Problem Solvers ◽  
Good Problem

Purpose Organizational learning relies on problem-solving as a way to generate new knowledge. Good problem solvers should adopt a problem-solving orientation (PSO) that analyzes the causes of problems to arrive at an effective solution. The purpose of this paper is to investigate this relevant, though underexplored, topic by examining two important antecedents of PSO: knowledge sharing mechanisms and transformational leaders’ support. Design/methodology/approach Hierarchical linear modeling analyses were performed on a sample of 131 workers in 12 plants. A questionnaire was designed to collect data from shop-floor employees. Knowledge sharing was measured using the mechanisms of participative practices and standardized practices. Management support was assessed based on the extent to which supervisors engaged in transformational leadership. Findings Knowledge sharing mechanisms are an antecedent of PSO behavior, but management support measured in terms of transformational leadership is not. However, transformational leadership affects the use of knowledge sharing mechanisms that, in turn, is positively related to PSO behavior. Practical implications The research provides practical guidance for practitioners to understand how to manage knowledge in the workplace to promote employees’ PSO behaviors. Originality/value Though problem-solving activities are intrinsic in any working context, PSO is still very much underrepresented and scarcely understood in knowledge management studies. This study fills this gap by investigating the antecedents of PSO behavior.

Effectiveness of a Problem-Solving Training Program

1995 ◽  
Vol 76 (2) ◽  
pp. 507-514 ◽  
Author(s):  
Johan W. Wege ◽  
André T. Möller
Keyword(s):  
Problem Solving ◽  
Training Program ◽  
Undergraduate Students ◽  
Internal Control ◽  
Self Efficacy ◽  
Group Analysis ◽  
External Control ◽  
Problem Solving Skills ◽  
Control Orientation ◽  
Problem Solvers

The relationship between problem-solving efficiency, defined in terms of the quality of alternative soludons selected, and measures of behavioral competence (self-efficacy and locus of control) was investigated as well as the effectiveness of a problem-solving training program. Subjects were 29 undergraduate students assigned to an effective ( n = 16) and an ineffective ( n = 13) problem-solving group. Analysis indicated that the ineffective problem-solvers appraised their problem-solving skills more negatively and reported low self-efficacy expectations and an external control orientation. Problem-solving training led to improved general self-efficacy expectancies, greater confidence in problem-solving, a more internal control orientation, and improved problem-solving skills. These improvements were maintained at follow-up after two months.

scholarly journals Developing numeracy and problem-solving skills by overcoming learning bottlenecks

2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (3) ◽  
pp. 398-414 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anita Lee-Post
Keyword(s):  
Problem Solving ◽  
Skill Development ◽  
Knowledge Work ◽  
Affective Learning ◽  
The Body ◽  
Problem Solving Skills ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Exam Scores ◽  
Business Undergraduates ◽  
Learning Interventions

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to present an educational approach to elevating problem-solving and numeracy competencies of business undergraduates to meet workplace demand. The approach is grounded in the theory of constraints following the Decoding the Discipline model. The authors investigated a cognitive bottleneck involving problem modeling and an affective bottleneck concerning low self-efficacy of numeracy and designed specific interventions to address both bottlenecks simultaneously. The authors implemented the proposed approach in an introductory level analytics course in business operations. Design/methodology/approach The authors use an empirical study to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed approach in addressing deficiency in numeracy and problem-solving skills. Cognitive and affective learning interventions were introduced in an undergraduate core course in analytics. The perceived effectiveness of the interventions was evaluated with the use of a survey at the end of the course. To further investigate the effectiveness of the proposed interventions beyond self-reporting, the impact of the interventions on actual learning was evaluated by comparing the exam scores between classes with and without the interventions. Findings Students who underwent the interventions successfully overcame both learning bottlenecks and indicated a positive change in attitude toward the analytics discipline as well as achieved higher exam scores in the analytics course. Research limitations/implications This study succeeds in strengthening the body of research in teaching and learning. The authors also offer a holistic treatment of cognitive and affective learning bottlenecks, and provide empirical evidence to support the effectiveness of the proposed approach in elevating numeracy and problem-solving competencies of business undergraduates. Practical implications The proposed approach is useful for business educators to improve business students’ quantitative modeling skill and attitude. Researchers can also extend the approach to other courses and settings to build up the body of research in learning and skill development. Educational policy makers may consider promoting promising approaches to improve students’ quantitative skill development. They can also set a high standard for higher education institutions to assess students’ numeracy and problem-solving competencies. Employers will find college graduates bring to their initial positions the high levels of numeracy and problem-solving skills demanded for knowledge work to sustain business growth and innovation. Social implications As students’ numeracy and problem-solving skills are raised, they will develop an aptitude for quantitative-oriented coursework that equips them with the set of quantitative information-processing skills needed to succeed in the twenty-first century society and global economy. Originality/value The proposed approach provides a goal-oriented three-step process to improve learning by overcoming learning bottlenecks as constraints of a learning process. The integral focus on identifying learning bottlenecks, creating learning interventions and assessing learning outcomes in the proposed approach is instrumental in introducing manageable interventions to address challenges in student learning thereby elevating students’ numeracy and problem-solving competencies.

Sixteen years of the Brooklands Thinking Skills Offender Programme

2017 ◽  
Vol 8 (3) ◽  
pp. 132-143 ◽  
Author(s):  
Gareth Hickman ◽  
Su Thrift ◽  
Rani Dhaliwal ◽  
Chénelle Taylor
Keyword(s):  
Locus Of Control ◽  
Problem Solving ◽  
Social Problem ◽  
Thinking Skills ◽  
Evidence Base ◽  
Social Problem Solving ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Problem Solving Skills ◽  
Treatment Pathway ◽  
Content Type

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to report on the Brooklands Thinking Skills Offender Programme (BTSOP), a social problem-solving skills group programme developed and provided to people with intellectual disabilities (IDs) detained in conditions of medium and low security. The programme has been running and evolving since 2001 and has undergone consistent development over this time. Within the past five years, there have been significant developments of the Secure Service Treatment Pathway and the current paper describes the integration of the BTSOP within this new pathway model. Design/methodology/approach The programme was evaluated over five years using self-report psychometric measures related to treatment targets. Evaluation data in relation to attrition rates, discharges, transfers, treatment engagement and recidivism are also provided from a 16-year period. The updated treatment pathway and a description of the programme are provided. Findings Results showed statistically significant improvements in Rational Problem Solving, increased internal locus of control and decreased external locus of control. Reflection on the limitations and challenges to outcome assessment in this area is offered. Originality/value This paper builds on the existing evidence base of interventions focused on developing social problem-solving skills in offenders and presents evidence of the effectiveness of such programmes with offenders with IDs.

Becoming Problem Solvers: The Case of Three Future Administrators

1998 ◽  
Vol 8 (3) ◽  
pp. 303-331 ◽  
Author(s):  
Janet H. Chrispeels ◽  
Kathleen J. Martin
Keyword(s):  
Problem Solving ◽  
Implicit Theories ◽  
Problem Based Learning ◽  
Group Processes ◽  
Organizational Factors ◽  
Theory And Practice ◽  
Collaborative Problem Solving ◽  
Problem Solving Skills ◽  
Theory Of Practice ◽  
Problem Solvers

This study examines how students in an administrative credential program developed collaborative problem-solving competence through their participation in two problem-based learning classes. Data collected at three times over the course of a year (videotapes, student reflective papers, faculty and student evaluations, final group projects, and interviews) were analyzed to assess how students develop problem-solving skills within a group. The data indicate that these classes allowed students to acquire knowledge and skills in group processes and problem-solving as well as course content. Follow-up studies of three students who served as telling cases, and who are the focus of this study, suggest students could see the link between theory and practice, and between the classes and their jobs as administrators. Although the students entered the classes with differing levels of problem-solving ability, all three perceived that the experiences in the problem-based learning classes enhanced their skills. The data also suggest that more active guidance by the faculty could enhance students’ reflective skills and their ability to identify implicit theories of practice. Thus, a metacognitive framework for acquiring and improving problem-solving skills in collaborative groups was developed to enable students to explore personal and organizational factors that shape their theory of practice.

By Way of Introduction

1982 ◽  
Vol 30 (3) ◽  
pp. 2
Keyword(s):  
Problem Solving ◽  
Young Children ◽  
Problem Solvers ◽  
Good Problem

“Children can demonstrate some good problem solving if given a chance,” according to Moser and Carpenter. In “Young Children Are Good Problem Solvers” (p. 24). they report on a study of problem solving done by young children. One of the authors' concluding statements is, “lf you want good performance, you have to work at it and include a strong dose of problem solving in your teaching.”

Developing problem-solving skills in mathematics: a lesson study

2017 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
pp. 32-44 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zoe Bradshaw ◽  
Amanda Hazell
Keyword(s):  
Problem Solving ◽  
Lesson Study ◽  
Academic Motivation ◽  
Pedagogical Practices ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Problem Solving Skills ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Stage 4 ◽  
Problem Solve ◽  
The Uk

Purpose Problem solving is a skill in mathematics which although always relevant has heightened priority due to the changes in the new mathematics GCSE (Department for Education, 2013). It has previously been a skill which is deemed underdeveloped within mathematics and therefore is a theme which teachers are seeking to improve and nurture in order to align with the new changes. The GCSE is the formal qualification that students take at the end of Key Stage 4 (KS4) in the UK. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach The focus of the enquiry was to explore, using lesson studies, the differences in students’ approaches to problem solving. Consequently, key themes relating to the mediation of gender, ability, and academic motivation surfaced. Considering these themes, the paper subsequently reflects upon pedagogical practices which might effectively develop students’ ability to problem solve. The study took part in a mixed gender comprehensive secondary school with students taking part in the observation lesson ranging in age from 11 to 12 years old. The authors are the teachers who took part in the lesson study. The teachers implemented observation techniques in the form of video and peer observation with the accompanying teacher. In addition, students provided feedback on how they approached the problem-solving tasks through a form of semi-structured interviews, conducted via the use of video diaries where no teachers were present to prevent power bias. Following this, a thematic analysis of both the observations and student video diaries generated conclusions regarding how said key themes shaped the students’ approaches to problem solving. Findings Students’ frustration and competitive need to find a specific answer inhibited their ability to thoroughly explore the problem posed thus overseeing vital aspects needed to solve the problem set. Many students expressed a passion for problem solving due to its freedom and un-rigid nature, which is something teachers should nurture. Originality/value Generally, teachers are led by a culture in which attainment is the key. However, an atmosphere should be developed where the answer is not the key and students can explore the vibrant diversity mathematics and problem solving can offer.

Sequential schooling or lifelong learning? International frameworks through the lens of English higher professional and vocational education

2018 ◽  
Vol 60 (2) ◽  
pp. 213-224 ◽  
Author(s):  
Stan Lester
Keyword(s):  
Vocational Education ◽  
Lifelong Learning ◽  
Professional Education ◽  
Vocational Education And Training ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Work Related ◽  
Standard Classification ◽  
And Training ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to review three international frameworks, including the International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED), in relation to one country’s higher professional and vocational education system. Design/methodology/approach The frameworks were examined in the context of English higher work-related education, and areas of mismatch identified. These were investigated to identify the extent to which they were due to weaknesses in the national system or to limiting assumptions contained in the frameworks. Findings Assumptions based on stages of education are problematic in the context of lifelong higher and professional education, while more open, lifelong-learning oriented assumptions can be too skeletal to aid comparisons between systems of initial vocational education and training. Particular problems are identified with assumptions contained in the ISCED that do not reflect the reality of professional education. Practical implications International frameworks need to take account of patterns of learning that take place outside of formal institutions and throughout life, but which lead to equivalent outcomes. Nevertheless, it is not adequate to substitute assumptions based only on the level of achievement. Social implications The assumptions underpinning the ISCED in particular mean that equivalent achievements in different systems can be classified differently, leading to under-reporting of individual achievements, a lack of comparability in international statistics, and potential for policy distortion. Originality/value The paper builds on the work of Hippach-Schneider et al. by providing additional evidence, from a different national context, for issues relating to the ISCED in the context of higher professional and vocational education, and extends this analysis to the two major European frameworks.

scholarly journals Daya Prediksi Tugas Problem Solving Terhadap Penguasaan Konsep Matematika Prodi Teknik Sipil

2017 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Anto Rianto
Keyword(s):  
Problem Solving ◽  
Everyday Life ◽  
Average Level ◽  
Coefficient Of Determination ◽  
Large Contribution ◽  
Training Problem ◽  
Problem Solving Skills ◽  
Math Concepts

Problem solving skills are something essential to achieve success in various activities in everyday life. To train students’ intellectual to have them problem solving skills, the students are given the opportunity to explain the answer with its own language. Beside that they should be given the opportunity to behave as an expert and should be given the emphasis on qualitative issues as well. One of forms in training problem solving skills is by problem solving tasks. The results of research showed that the level of student mastery of problem solving tasks is good category, while the average level of student mastery of math concepts is medium category. Large contribution from the mastery of problem solving tasks of mastering math concepts at 82.9%. This shows that the mastery of problem solving tasks can contribute to student mastery of math concepts. Based on the coefficient of determination can be stated that the level of mastery of problem solving tasks can be used as a reference in predicting students' mastery of math concepts.

scholarly journals Using Coherence Analysis to Characterize Self-Regulated Learning Behaviours in Open-Ended Learning Environments

2015 ◽  
Vol 2 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
James R Segedy ◽  
John S Kinnebrew ◽  
Gautam Biswas
Keyword(s):  
Problem Solving ◽  
Learning Environments ◽  
Self Regulation ◽  
Learning Task ◽  
Coherence Analysis ◽  
Problem Solving Skills ◽  
Self Regulated Learning ◽  
Regulated Learning ◽  
Learning Behaviours ◽  
Insight Into

Researchers have long recognized the potential benefits of using open-ended computer-based learning environments (OELEs) to study aspects of students’ self-regulated learning behaviours. However, measuring self-regulation in these environments is a difficult task. In this paper, we present our work in developing and evaluating coherence analysis (CA), a novel approach to interpreting students’ learning behaviours in OELEs. CA focuses on the learner’s ability to interpret and apply information encountered while working in the OELE. By characterizing behaviours in this manner, CA provides insight into students’ open-ended problem-solving strategies as well as the extent to which they understand the nuances of their current learning task. To validate our approach, we applied CA to data from a recent classroom study with Betty’s Brain. Results demonstrated relationships between CA-derived metrics, prior skill levels, task performance, and learning. Taken together, these results provide insight into students’ SRL processes and suggest targets for adaptive scaffolds to support students’ development of science understanding and open-ended problem solving skills.

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