Definition
Competences in problem solving refer to the ability to relate previously unrelated objects or variables to produce novel and appropriate or useful outcomes (Morris et al., 2013), through a process or problem identification, new idea generation and realization.
This competence can be assessed according to the following three students’ mastery levels:
Introductory level
Does not recognise and is not able to analyse problems; is not oriented to quickly find solutions; does not involve others; tends to avoid decision- making or takes unclear decisions; prefers traditional models, even if out-dated; does not challenge the status quo; gets lost in the detail and cannot see the bigger picture.
Intermediate level
Identifies and tries to analyse problems; can distinguish relevant from irrelevant information in low complexity situation; try to seek for best solutions not necessarily quickly and/or involving others; can see alternative and innovative solutions to problems but cannot always apply them; can imagine good but not necessarily innovative ways to tackle problems; adopts lateral thinking if accompanied; makes decisions; acts with integrity.
Advanced level
dentifies and appropriately analyse problems; distinguishes relevant from irrelevant information; quickly searches for best solutions involving others; considers different approaches, disciplines and points of view when generating solutions; uses resources creatively; originates alternatives to conventional thinking; produces imaginative or unique responses to a problem makes clear, consistent, transparent decisions; acts with integrity in all decision making.
Tools for Assessment
On the right you will find the assessment tools that can be used to measure this competence.
Click on the tool name to access the tool.
