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Introduction to

Problem Solving

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Can-do Cantilever

A cantilevered structure is a structure that is supported at one end by a counterbalance.

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Can-do Cantilever

Your Challenge:Design and construct the longest

cantilevered structure you can using only popsicle sticks and masking tape.

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The Problem Solving Process

Three Components:• Understanding the Challenge• Generating Ideas• Preparing for Action

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Understanding the Challenge

In this component you:• Make sure you understand what needs to

be solved• Explore what you know about the

challenge and form a specific problem statement

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Generating Ideas

In this component you:• Generate many, varied and unusual ideas • Identify those with potential

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Guidelines for Generating

• Defer judgment• Encourage freewheeling• Seek quantity• Look for combinations

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Generating Ideas

Tool: ABC Brainstorming

Generate a list of things that might be sticky

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Generating Ideas

It’s not what you say but how you say it that produces the best ideas:

In what ways might we…

How might we…

How to…

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Preparing for Action

In this component you:• Identify, organize, and refine promising

possibilities• Identify and select promising solutions• Formulate a plan for carrying out the

solution

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Guidelines for Focusing

• Use affirmative judgment• Be deliberate• Consider novelty• Stay on course

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Towering Tribute• Build a tower as tall as

possible out of newspaper and tape

• The tower:– Must include at least one

unique feature that makes it unlike any other tower

– Must be dedicated to someone or something

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Putting it all together:

• Problem-solving model developed by Center for Creative Learning and used with permission

• Problem solving process has three components:– Understanding the Challenge– Generating Ideas– Preparing for Action

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Using a Problem Solving Process Can…

• Make the procedure more purposeful and productive

• Result in the best possible solution• Help with project management• Help with time management• Improve teamwork

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Questions?