Problem Solving
The ability to find a solution to a situation or challenge.
What this skill covers
- Completing tasks
- Exploring problems
- Analysing complex problems and solutions
- Implementing strategic plans
What is this skill about?
This skill focuses on how to solve problems, recognising that while part of Problem Solving is technical know-how and experience, there are also transferable tools that you can develop and use.
The first steps focus on being able to follow instructions to complete tasks, seeking help and extra information if needed. The next stage focuses on being able to explore problems by creating and assessing different potential solutions. This includes more complex problems, without a simple technical solution.
Beyond this, the focus is on exploring complex solutions – thinking about causes and effects, generating options, and evaluating those options. This extends into analysis using logical reasoning and hypotheses.
Finally, the focus becomes implementing strategic plans to solve complex problems, assessing their success, and drawing out learning for the future.
Skill details
There are 16 steps in this skill
You can jump straight to a step by selecting it below.
Completing tasks by following instructions
Completing tasks by finding someone to help if you need them
Completing tasks by explaining problems to someone for advice if you need it
Completing tasks by finding information you need yourself
Exploring problems by creating different possible solutions
Exploring problems by thinking about the pros and cons of possible solutions
Exploring complex problems by identifying when there are no simple technical solutions
Exploring complex problems by building your understanding through research
Exploring complex problems by analysing the causes and effects
Creating solutions for complex problems by generating a range of options
Creating solutions for complex problems by evaluating the positive and negative effects of a range of options
Analysing complex problems by using logical reasoning
Analysing complex problems by creating and testing hypotheses
Implementing strategic plans to solve complex problems
Implementing strategic plans to solve complex problems and assessing their success
Implementing strategic plans to solve complex problems and drawing out learning to refine those plans over time
Module Structure
Each step in this skill requires you to work through 3 stages.
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Identify
Read, watch and listen to the content.
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Practise
Show that you've understood the content by completing activities.
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Articulate
Reflect and discuss what you've learned.
Learn your own way
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You don't need to learn the skill steps in order.
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You can move back and forward between steps at anytime - you can even revisit them at a later date!
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Don't want to do an exercise just yet? No problem - come back to it again later.