Group Problem Solving

Group Problem Solving:  Students identify a current issue occurring at the local level.  The goal is to come up with a solution to the problem. The solution will be tested and reported on. 

Objectives: The goals of group problem solving are to develop the students ability to solve problems in the given context. Goals can also include building team skills, experience testing solutions, evaluative skills among alternatives, etc. 

During and after performing the Group Problem Solving activity, students will:
  • develop group problem solving skills,
  • interpret facts and propose solutions,
  • recognize key facets of a problem situation,
  • identify motives creating a problem situation,
  • outline a course of action
Materials and Resources:  The instructor must present the students with the Problem Model. This may include access to numerous background materials. The instructor should also provide a group discussion area for each group and clear guidelines on their activities.

Lesson Outline and Procedure:
  1. Groups of 3-5 are usually effective in online education activities.
  2. Present students with the problem to be solved and any background materials needed to begin solving the problem.
  3. Provide time for group formation. Follow the groups communications very closely at the beginning to make sure that everything starts off well.
  4. If it is a long process, have the groups submit progress reports.
  5. Final group solutions may be submitted to the instructor or the class for peer review and comments.
  6. In some cases, students may test out their solution and report on the results as a stage 2 process to the group problem solving activity.
  7. Assess both individual and group performance.

Teaching Strategies:
  • Group work is a fickle fiend in online education. Resources are provided below regarding effectively implementing online group work.
  • If groups have already been used in the course, the same groups may be maintained to reduce group formation time.
  • Do not present the students with too much information at the beginning. In other words, give them enough to guide them to the solution without actually telling them the solution.
  • Use problems that have multiple or complex solutions so as to more effectively make use of group synergy relationships. Easy problems do not require group work.