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The design process of problem solving.

Article Excerpt
Abstract

The design process of problem solving, which provides a cognitive framework of analysis, synthesis, and evaluation is used by many professional designers to create solutions to design problems. Students may be taught this process as an effective life skill, which starts with defining the problem and moving through steps to creating a logical solution.

Introduction

Problem solving is central to everyone's existence. People survive if they are fed, sheltered, and protected but they construct ways to obtain food, shelter, and protection through problem solving. Though problems vary in complexity, survival at the one end and the pursuit of contentedness at the other, we are dependent on our ability to solve problems. The design process is consistent with notions about effective practices for educating K-12 students: using theme-based and interdisciplinary instruction; fostering self-direction and independence; teaching topics relevant to the learner; using group interaction; promoting student discovery; and encouraging critical and creative exploration of ideas (Currier, 1986; Stevenson, 1992). Students discover through testing, revising, and retesting that there may be some solutions that are more effective than others but there are many possibilities for success.

Good design often is an assimilation of elements that involves observation, creative brainstorming, and collaboration. The word design refers to a goal-oriented process that is intended to meet needs to improve situations or to create something new and/or useful (Freidman, 2003). At the heart of designing is the design process, which follows a planned sequence of analytical, synthetic, and evaluative steps until the optimum solution is finalized. It may involve contemplating, speaking, writing, drawing, modeling, and constructing. The process follows stages that may be used sequentially or that may require the student to loop back and modify an earlier stage. Prototypical models are often constructed, evaluated, and modified for solution development.

The Design Process

Stage One: Define the Problem

Part One: The teacher gives an assignment, which is presented as a problem to solve. The students answer the questions of what, who, where, when, and how to gain clarity in defining the problem. This could be done as a group or individually. At the elementary level, it may be easiest for the teacher to guide the questions and complete stage one as a group. At the middle or high school levels, it is up to the discretion of the teacher whether each team or individual is capable of completing this stage with...

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