Guiding Students in Problem Solving
Students attending STEM lessons often have problem and weakness in solving problems relating to science, technology, engineering and math. They need to learn how to think about solving problems in a general perspective. Students are usually not familiar with implicit skills and ways of thinking in solving these problems. This is one thing that most teachers are not aware of. Lets look at a few ways in teaching problem solving skills to students. 1. Model hidden thinking in problem solving. Guide students about every aspect of what they are doing providing reasons for every steps. Include moments of vulnerability and accept the fact that they don't know what to do. Discuss the students' options and decision process. Use methods to check their work in order to correct their errors. This internal dialogue is essential in problem solving. 2. Facilitate student talk during problem solving. Never solve the problems for the students even if they ask you in any situation either in cl