Learning to Solve Problems ─ A Handbook for Designing Problem-Solving Learning Environments

This book provides a comprehensive, up-to-date look at problem-solving research and practice over the last fifteen years. The first chapter describes differences in types of problems, individual differences among problem solvers, as well as the domain and context within which a problem is being solved. Part I describes six kinds of problems and the methods required to solve them. Part II goes beyond traditional discussions of case design and introduces seven different purposes or functions of cases, the building blocks of problem-solving learning environments. It also describes methods for constructing cases to support problem solving. Part III introduces a number of cognitive skills required for studying cases and solving problems. Finally, Part IV describes several methods for assessing problem solving.

This book is appropriate for advanced courses in instructional design and technology, science education, applied cognitive psychology, thinking and reasoning, and educational psychology. Instructional designers, especially those involved in designing problem-based learning, as well as curriculum designers who seek new ways of structuring curriculum will find it an invaluable reference tool.

David H. Jonassen is Curators' Professor of Educational Psychology and Learning Technologies at the University of Missouri.