Two of the most crucial abilities that PreK-12 students may develop are the ability to problem solve and think critically. Why? Because learners need these skills to succeed in school and life in general. It enables individuals to find solutions to problems and complex situations that are thrown their way, even if it is the first time they have encountered the problem.

Okay, we know these are important skills that are also tough to perfect. How can we teach our students to solve problems and think critically? I’m happy you inquired. This article will identify and discuss tactics and methods for teaching your students to do just that.

• Method of Direct Analogy

A problem-solving tactic in which a problem is compared to comparable situations in nature or other contexts, resulting in viable solutions.

• Listing of Attributes

A strategy for encouraging creative thinking in which the components of a subject, challenge, or activity are stated and then ways to change those component elements are investigated.

• Modifying Attributes

A strategy for encouraging creative thinking in which the components of a subject, problem, or activity are stated and then possibilities for modifying or improving each component are discussed.

• Transferring Attributes

A strategy used to foster creative thinking in which the pieces of a subject, problem, or task are described, and then the problem solver generates and considers potential solutions using analogies to other situations.

• Synthesis of Morphology

An approach that encourages innovative problem solving by transferring attributes. A matrix is formed, with concrete attributes listed along the x-axis and concepts from a second attribute listed along the y-axis, resulting in a large list of idea combinations.

• SCAMPER

SCAMPER stands for Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify-Magnify-Minify, Reverse or Rearrange. It is a list of ideas for resolving design issues.

• Direct Analogy

A problem-solving strategy in which a person is invited to consider how similar problems are solved in nature.

• Analogy of Persons

A problem-solving strategy in which an individual is challenged to become a part of the problem to see it from a different perspective and uncover potential solutions.

• Analogy in Fantasy

A problem-solving technique in which participants are invited to consider ridiculous, wonderful, or odd solutions that may lead to creative and ground-breaking concepts.

• Symbolic Analogy

A problem-solving technique in which participants are challenged to construct a two-word sentence that appears self-contradictory and is connected to the design problem under consideration. This phrase’s brainstorming method might spark creative ideas.

• Charting of Implementation

A task in which issue solvers are required to identify the next steps in putting their creative ideas into action. This stage comes after the idea creation stage and the narrowing of concepts to one or more viable solutions. The procedure assists participants in seeing implementation as a possible next step.

• Thinking Skills 

Thinking Skills are abilities that help students become critical, rational, and evaluative thinkers. Analysis, comparison, classification, synthesis, generalization, discrimination, inference, planning, predicting, and discovering cause-effect linkages are among them.

Can you think of any more problem-solving approaches that educators employ to help their students improve their problem-solving skills?