Decrecia Nevels PSYC1310: General Psychology 09/07/15 Problem Solving Problems are encountered every day, by everyone. Some problems, such as solving the daily cross word puzzle, are pleasant, while some, like trying to figure out how to get into your house after you have locked yourself out, are stressful. A problem is defined as a question where there is no clear, direct solution or answer. A problem requires some work done on it before a solution can be available. The method of distinguishing a problem, classifying it, recognizing other approaches to resolve said problem is called problem solving. Problem solving also involves selecting a course of action, organizing and implementing the plan, and assessing the outcome. Even though problem solving has been examined and researched, there is still a lot we don’t know in relation to how we tactically labor through problems. With problem solving, different strategies can be used to help find a solution. An example would be analogy heuristic which is using a similar problem from your past and applying the solution to your current. In addition, working backwards is another strategy which simply means finding the answer by starting with the end result and working back to the beginning. Lastly, you can also use means-end analysis which breaks down the current problem into smaller problems and solving them independently ultimately leading to your problem being solved overall. A common problem I am facing at the moment is
Military leaders make decisions and solve problems every day. Some need a decision quickly while others can take time. The US Army has several decision-making methods to assist leaders. The Army Problem Solving Model (Process) (PSM) is a systematic approach to identifying the best possible solution to an issue or problem and a deliberate method of decision-making (FM 6-0, 2009). Leaders use it to solve a problem when time is not critical and they can put some thought into different solutions. The solution must be objective and based on facts in order for the decision to be relevant and practical. The
The approach described by Drs. Paul & Elder assist Army Officers in solving problems using the Army Problem Solving Process described in FM 6-0, Commander and Staff Organization and Operational (2014). The experts approach, the elements of thought, its described using the following elements: purpose, questions, point of views, information, conclusion, concepts, implications, and assumptions. The Army Problem Solving Process consist of these seven steps: Gather information and knowledge, identify the problem develop criteria, generate possible solutions, analyze possible solutions, compare
In the problem analysis phase of effective decision making, group members should recognize any obstacle that may arise that needs to be improved or changed and determine the characteristics, magnitude, and possible cause(s) of that obstacle confronting them. This phase lays the groundwork for what the group should be prepared for as they work together (Hirokawa & Salazar, 1999 p. 170).After analyzing the problem, the group should then discuss and establish goals and objectives in order to generate proposed solutions of
Ken is 63 years old and unmarried. He retired at age 55 when he sold his business, Understock.com. Though Ken is retired, he is still very active.
We first looked at finding the right problem to solve, defining the problem and analysing the problem and developing possibilities. We then looked at selecting the best solution, implementing the solution and then evaluating and then Learning from this. Within my job role we come across a vast array of problems DNA samples Etc. We will then look at the problem and look at what the best solution to solving the problem. E.g. Our team of Crime Scene Investigators are dispatched to a crime scene. Suspects are taken into custody but can be held only for a short period of time. We have to act quickly to solve the crime using forensics and working with the police in order to bring justice. We are required to use Comprehension, deduction, communication and problem solving skills that are
5.1 Problem solving approach is a traditional and foundational aspect of general social work practice. It is based on identifying a problem or set of problems facing a client, and formulating a framework of possible options with the hope of fixing the problem or improving the situation. Although the worker may guide the client and inform them of the possibilities and options available, the client is still solely responsible for their own choices and actions. The formal application of this principle is the definition, assessment, setting of goals, intervention and resolution.
As leaders, Army officers need to be able to make decisions on a daily, even hourly basis. While the Military Decision Making Process (MDMP) is the typical method for operational decisions, routine issues often require less regimented methods such as Army Problem Solving . Our point of view, the information at hand, the concepts we base our views upon, our personal implications and assumptions, and the purposes that motivate our need for decisions are all critical in determining the ultimate effectiveness of this problem solving process. Drs. Paul and Elder enumerate the “Elements of Thought” which include and incorporate supporting traits and standards. Through proper integration of these accepted standards into our thought processes can and does significantly improve our overall use of the Army Problem Solving process by enhancing our critical thinking skills and our ability to think rationally.
Define the problem is the most useful strategy for me. It is often hard to identify the root of the problem when making a decision. For example, goal setting can be difficult when you have more than one goal that you want to accomplish. I have so many goals that I want to accomplish, but the problem is trying to finish them all at once. Doing so I never complete any goals. It becomes too stressful and overwhelming. Once I define the problem I can start organizing the information from what is important and what is more realistic to complete first.
The decision making process can also be divided into seven steps, where the first step will basically involve defining the problem. These steps allow for the main issue to be identified, and therefore the manager should make sure that it has been done correctly. After the problem identification stage, we can move forward and identify the limiting factors, and in this the manager should make use of all resources available to do it the best way. Some of the resources include information, time, personnel, equipment and supplies. Using this, managers can be able to identify the factors that might hinder them from achieving their goals.
A problem solving strategy considers the initial & goal state of a problem, and the obstacles that will inhibit an effortless transition between the two states. Means-end analysis is a method for solving a problem that was first introduced by Newell and Simon in the 1960’s. This search heuristic reduces the problem space by breaking the problem into smaller parts, or sub goals. The completion of each sub goal reduces the difference between the initial and goal state until the goal is reached. The means-ends analysis is a flexible technique that always keeps the long-range goal in mind, and is often used in solving everyday problems.
The basics of this method focus on problem-solving and short-term application. As Ford and Postle (1998, pg 52) suggest
There are many different strategies that good problem solvers use to solve a problem. The steps of the problem solving process are systematic and organized. First, take your time and identify the problem very carefully. Do the research, and become informed about your subject. Few good problem solvers solve problems fast. Life choices need to be supported with well thought-out
First step in decision making process is identifying the problems. As McShane and Von Glinow (2000) stated, a problem can be
A deconstructive approach to problem solving puts in question the concept of "problem" and the notion of "solution."