scholarly journals Effective Assessment of Workplace Problem-Solving in Higher Education

10.28945/4496 ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 19 ◽  
pp. 001-016
Author(s):  
Maurice M. Danaher ◽  
Kevin Schoepp
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Problem Solving ◽  
Discussion Board ◽  
Assessment Instrument ◽  
Asynchronous Discussion ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Problem Solving Skills ◽  
Student Groups ◽  
Asynchronous Discussion Board ◽  
Computing Curriculum

Aim/Purpose: Within higher education, graduating students who are able to solve ill-structured, complex, open-ended, and collaborative, workplace problems is recognized as paramount. Because of this, there is a need to assess this skill across the curriculum. Background: This paper addresses this issue by assessing problem-solving across a computing curriculum using an assessment instrument shown to be reliable and valid. Methodology: The method is based upon the implementation of the assessment instrument that uses a scenario-based asynchronous discussion board measuring the ability of student groups to solve workplace problems. The sample are computing students from the 2nd, 3rd, 4th year, and master’s levels at a UAE university. Contribution: This paper shows the problem-solving skills of students over four years of study across a computing curriculum and demonstrates the effectiveness of the instrument. Findings: There was a general increase in student problem-solving performance from the 2nd, 3rd, 4th year, and master’s levels, but students often failed to meet the expected level of performance for their year of study. In addition, the instrument was effective in assessing problem-solving. Recommendations for Practitioners: This assessment instrument, or one similar, that uses a scenario-based asynchronous discussion board can be used to measure the ability of student groups to solve workplace problems. Impact on Society: Students must be prepared to solve workplace problems to meet the needs of 21st century employment. Future Research: Further research should be conducted with this assessment instrument, or one similar, outside of this fairly unique UAE- based context.

scholarly journals Impact of design thinking in higher education: a multi-actor perspective on problem solving and creativity

2022 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sharon Guaman-Quintanilla ◽  
Patricia Everaert ◽  
Katherine Chiluiza ◽  
Martin Valcke
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Problem Solving ◽  
Repeated Measures ◽  
Design Thinking ◽  
Effect Sizes ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Large Sample Size ◽  
Problem Solving Skills ◽  
Higher Education Curriculum ◽  
Key Skills

AbstractThis study investigates the effects of using design thinking on students’ problem solving and creativity skills, applying a constructivist learning theory. A course where students use design thinking for analyzing real problems and proposing a solution, was evaluated. The study involved 910 novice university students from different disciplines who worked in teams throughout the semester. Data were collected at three times during the semester, i.e. at the beginning (t0), in the middle (t1) and at the end (t2), after solving a short case study. Each time the problem solving and creativity skill of each student was rated by three different actors, i.e. the students themselves (self-evaluation), one peer and one teacher (facilitator). The objective of this study is to investigate whether the problem solving skills and creativity skills improved along the course, as rated by the three actors. A repeated measures ANOVA was used for the data analysis of this within-subjects design. Results show a significant improvement on students’ problem solving and creativity skills, according to the three raters. Effect sizes were also calculated; in all cases the effect sizes from t0 to t1 were larger than t1 to t2. The multi-actor perspective of this study, the adoption of reliable and valid measures and the large sample size provide robust evidence that supports the implementation of design thinking in higher education curriculum for promoting key skills such as problem solving and creativity, demanded by labor markets. Finally, a discussion that puts forward an agenda for future research is presented.

scholarly journals Going Towards Adaption, Integration, and Co-Creation

2016 ◽  
pp. 533-540
Author(s):  
Chunfang Zhou
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Problem Solving ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Research Directions ◽  
Problem Solving Skills ◽  
Theoretical Perspectives ◽  
Future Research Directions ◽  
Pedagogical Models ◽  
Creative Problem ◽  
Intellectual Journey

As a response to the growing challenges brought about by complexity in professional practice, the collection of chapters in this volume guides an intellectual journey through the various theoretical perspectives, research methods and pedagogical models with a focus on developing creative problem solving skills in higher education. Based on an overview of topics in this volume, this chapter aims to draw a conclusion about future research directions from present contributions. It could be an extended journey with the intention of helping the audience to locate the ideas presented in this volume within a framework constructed by the three main themes of adaption, integration and co-creation. This lays a stepping-stone in paving the way of pedagogical development and research prospects.

Teaching Personal Finance Mathematical Problem Solving to Individuals With Moderate Intellectual Disability

2016 ◽  
Vol 40 (1) ◽  
pp. 5-14 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jenny Root ◽  
Alicia Saunders ◽  
Fred Spooner ◽  
Chelsi Brosh
Keyword(s):  
Problem Solving ◽  
Mathematical Problem ◽  
Functional Relation ◽  
Personal Finance ◽  
Future Research ◽  
School Students ◽  
Problem Solving Skills ◽  
Mathematical Problems ◽  
Based Instruction ◽  
Multiple Probe

The ability to solve mathematical problems related to purchasing and personal finance is important in promoting skill generalization and increasing independence for individuals with moderate intellectual disabilities (IDs). Using a multiple probe across participant design, this study investigated the effects of modified schema-based instruction (MSBI) on personal finance problem solving skills, purchasing an item on sale or leaving a tip, and using a calculator or iDevice (i.e., iPhone or iPad) for three middle school students diagnosed with a moderate ID. The results showed a functional relation between MSBI using a calculator on the participant’s ability to solve addition and subtraction personal finance word problems and generalize to iDevices. The findings of this study provide several implications for practice and offer suggestions for future research.

scholarly journals Introducing Computational Thinking Practices in Learning Science of Elementary Schools [Research-in-Progress]

10.28945/4327 ◽  
2019 ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Science Education ◽  
Problem Solving ◽  
Computational Thinking ◽  
Learning Science ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Full Potential ◽  
Science Program ◽  
Next Generation ◽  
Science Field ◽  
Problem Solving Skills

Aim/Purpose: Science is becoming a computational endeavor therefore Computational Thinking (CT) is gradually being accepted as a required skill for the 21st century science student. Students deserve relevant conceptual learning accessible through practical, constructionist approaches in cross-curricular applications therefore it is required for educators to define, practice and assess practical ways of introducing CT to science education starting from elementary school. Background: Computational Thinking is a set of problem-solving skills evolving from the computer science field. This work-in-progress research assesses the CT skills, along with science concepts, of students participating in a science program in school. The program pertains learning science by modeling and simulating real world phenomenon using an agent-based modeling practice. Methodology: This is an intervention research of a science program. It takes place as part of structured learning activities of 4th and 5th grade classes which are teacher-guided and are conducted in school. Both qualitative and quantitative evaluations are parts of the mixed methods research methodology using a variety of evaluation technique, including pretests and posttests, surveys, artifact-based interviews, in class observations and project evaluations. Contribution: CT is an emerging skill in learning science. It is requiring school systems to give increased attention for promoting students with the opportunity to engage in CT activities alongside with ways to promote a deeper understanding of science. Currently there is a lack of practical ways to do so and lack of methods to assess the results therefore it is an educational challenge. This paper presents a response to this challenge by proposing a practical program for school science courses and an assessment method. Findings: This is a research in progress which finding are based on a pilot study. The researches believe that findings may indicate improved degree of students' science understanding and problem-solving skills. Recommendations for Practitioners: Formulating computer simulations by students can have great potential on learning science with embedded CT skills. This approach could enable learners to see and interact with visualized representations of natural phenomena they create. Although most teachers do not learn about CT in their initial education, it is of paramount importance that such programs, as the one described in this research, will assist teachers with the opportunity to introduce CT into science studies. Recommendation for Researchers: Scientific simulation design in primary school is at its dawn. Future research investment and investigation should focus on assessment of aspects of the full Computational Thinking for Science taxonomy. In addition, to help teachers assess CT skills, new tools and criteria are required. Impact on Society: STEM related professions are lacking the man power required therefore the full potential of the economy of developed countries is not fulfilled. Having students acquire computational thinking skills through formal education may prepare the next generation of world class scientists and attract larger populations to these fields. Future Research: The inclusion of computational thinking as a core scientific practice in the Next Generation Science Standards is an important milestone, but there is still much work to do toward addressing the challenge of CT-Science education to grow a generation of technologically and scientifically savvy individuals. New comprehensive approaches are needed to cope with the complexity of cognitive processes related to CT.

Assessment of higher education students’ information problem-solving skills in educational sciences

2020 ◽  
pp. 026666692097618
Author(s):  
Consuelo Garcia ◽  
Esther Argelagós ◽  
Jesús Privado
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Problem Solving ◽  
Ecological Validity ◽  
Research Question ◽  
Theoretical Models ◽  
Problem Solving Skills ◽  
Procedural Information ◽  
Information Problem Solving ◽  
Information Problem ◽  
Educational Sciences

Many of the current tests that evaluate information problem-solving skills suffer from ecological validity weakness and from library-bias. The Procedural Information Problem-Solving Knowledge Evaluation in Education test (PIKE-E) aims to assess information problem-solving skills of college students in relation to an academic literature review task in educational sciences. It entails a confirmatory analysis of the PIKE-P test in which it is based. The PIKE-E was completed by 700 students from three different Spanish-speaking countries. In our research, we do not assume that information problem solving skills at the international and cultural level are equal, but Internet access is practically the same in higher education. Results show the existence of five first-order factors, Defining the research question, Search strategies planning, Searching and locating sources, Selecting and processing information and Organizing and presenting information, and a general single second-order factor, Information problem-solving, which coincide with contemporary theoretical models on information literacy. The PIKE-E can be used to tackle in which specific areas concerning information skills development, students entering education degrees need to improve to succeed in their studies.

scholarly journals Building The Character of Pre-Service Teachers through The Learning Model of Problem-Based Analytical Chemistry Lab Work

2017 ◽  
Vol 6 (2) ◽  
pp. 229 ◽  
Author(s):  
S. Haryani ◽  
A. T. Prasetya ◽  
H. Bahron
Keyword(s):  
Problem Solving ◽  
Learning Process ◽  
Test Problem ◽  
Learning Model ◽  
Problem Solving Skills ◽  
Chemistry Teachers ◽  
Student Groups ◽  
Local Material ◽  
Problem Characteristic ◽  
Essay Test

<p>This research aims to apply and find out the characteristics of Problem-Based Instrumental Analysis of Chemistry Lab Work Learning Model (IACLLM) which is able to build the characters, improve the conceptual mastery and the ability of problem solving. The research using experimental quasy with 2 student groups of pre service chemistry teachers as the subjects of the research applied the treatment of problem-based IACLLM for the experimental class and lab work learning with standard lab work procedure in control class. Conceptual mastery was measured using essay test; problem solving skills were measured using assessment of problem solving reports, presentation of the results, and kit making products; whereas the emerged characters were observed during the learning process. The result of this research showed that problem-based IACLLM had open-ended problem characteristic, had produced local material kit, and characters were observed in every stage of problem-based learning model. The implementation of the model could improve the spectrometric and electrometric conceptual mastery, the problem solving skills on a very good level and also some characters were developing during learning process, including religious, discipline, honest, curious, creative, critical, cooperative, communicative, independent, and able to appreciate other people’s opinions and achievements, leadership, democracy, and able to be thorough and careful, and hardworking.<br /><br /></p>

scholarly journals The Role of Critical Thinking in Helping Students Cope with Problems

2020 ◽  
Vol 1 (2) ◽  
pp. 198-217
Author(s):  
Violla Makhzoum ◽  
Lama Komayha
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Critical Thinking ◽  
Problem Solving ◽  
Private Universities ◽  
Education Programs ◽  
Problem Solving Skills ◽  
American System ◽  
The Difference ◽  
The University

Purpose: This research study aims to address the role of higher education programs in developing students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills, emphasizing on the importance of the university professors’ role in nurturing these skills through the means they use in the classroom. The research also aims to highlight the difference in developing these skills among students between universities that follow the Francophone system and universities that follow the American system. Approach/Methodology/Design: To achieve the goal of this research, a descriptive approach was adopted to test the validity of the research hypotheses which are based on correlations between research variables related to higher education programs and the skill of critical thinking. A questionnaire was employed to collect data from the sample, which consisted of four private universities, divided into two groups which are two private universities that follow the American system, and two private universities that follow the Francophone system. The sample consisted of 120 students from universities that follow the American system, and 132 students from universities that follow the Francophone system. The students were selected from the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration. Findings: It was found out that there are statistically significant differences between the students’ answers regarding the extent of their ability to possess the skills of critical thinking and problem-solving in concerning to the universities in which they study, and we have also found that there are statistically significant differences in the student’s acquisition of these skills between the programs of Francophone and American universities according to their demographic characteristics and majors. Practical Implications: The study will be of great use for concerned authorities, emphasizing on critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Originality/value: The findings revealed a significant correlation between university programs and critical thinking and problem solving skills.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document