Problem Solving 

Life is full of problems. The challenge lies in how we work to solve them. Formulating judgment through a process of analysis and evaluation is a cognitive skill that develops over time and through experience. Problem-solving involves the use of encoding, retrieval, and metacognition skills. 

Encoding involves the process of identifying what the problem involves and determining the optimal solution for obtaining the best resolution. In short, how one determines what the problem involves and identifying the best end result is considered the process of encoding. Retrieval is one's ability to recall information that has been stored within long-term memory and is related to the problem at hand. Metacognition is the process of "thinking about thinking". Self-monitoring the problem-solving process to determine the level of progress and if the approach to achieving the optimal solution is effective.

Problem-solving is essential to every aspect of our lives - academically, professionally, socially, and personally. As such, it should be artfully and consistently incorporated into instruction as a staple for learning. Doing so would equip individuals with an ability that serves them throughout life. Instructional designers can strategically incorporate activities to promote the development of problem-solving abilities within learners of every age. As technology advances, so does the learner. IDs are tasked with maintaining pace as educational environments, technological advancements, learner interests, and abilities develop. This can be a huge undertaking. However, there is some help. Journals and websites can serve as sources to obtain current and reliable insights into science-based information that guide instructional and learning changes.

American Science for Quality(TM), or ASQ, is one such website. ASQ brings the perspective of people from across 130 countries together to provide a voice of quality that provides enhanced expertise, professional networks, tools, and solutions. Visit the ASQ site and check out the article, What is Problem Solving? at https://asq.org/quality-resources/problem-solving#Process. You will also find a nice cache of resources for further exploration.

Following your review, feel free to share your thoughts here and ignite a discussion. I'm interested in your thoughts. Until then ...

Keep Learning Creatively,

The Arrant Artificer

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