Intro: Problem solving is needed in many disciplines, to include economics, government, world studies, or personal finance. The six-step problem solving process is a formal way to make decisions and can be used in many different ways. Problem solving is also about critical thinking which is the analysis of an issue or situation and the facts, data or evidence related to it. Critical thinking is a skill that allows you to make logical and informed decisions to the best of your ability. For more on Critical Thinking Click Here. For lecture notes, see file below.
The process has six steps:
1) ID Problem
2) Analyze Problem (criteria)
3) Generate solutions
4) Select solution (do matrix)
5) Implement solution
6) Evaluate solution
What is unique about this process is its use of all five types of thinking: critical, analytical, creative, logical, and reflective.
Econ (10pts): Instructions: Using the six-step problem solving process, select one of the following problems to solve: 1) Pick a place where to eat before Prom, 2) Pick a college to attend, 3) Buy a puppy dog. Do another problem for EL.
AmGovt (10pts): Instructions: Using the six-step problem solving process, select one of the problems below to solve. Do another problem for EC.
1. State Issue: Distracted driving (texting & driving) is the major cause for an increase in traffic deaths across the state, texting & driving is the main cause.
1) Problem: How do we encourage drive not to text & drive.
2) Analyze problem (criteria): Need a government policy that the viewed by the public positively, is low cost, and is effective.
2. City of Davenport Issue: Gun violence on the rise in selected neighborhoods.
1. Problem: How do we stop gun violence in selected neighborhoods.
2. Analyze problem (criteria): Need a government policy that the viewed by the public positively, is low cost, and is effective.
3. Davenport Community School District Issue: Lost of student enrollment is causing $1.2M funding shortfall.
1. Problem: Where do we cut $1.2M?
2. Analyze problem: Need a government policy that the viewed by the public positively, is low cost, and is effective.