2015/05/08
1 THE SIX STEP PROBLEM
SOLVING PROCESS
By T.Mvukwe
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INTRODUCTION
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The six step problem-solving process is an easy approach that enables students to confidently deal with problems and issues that they might on a daily bases of university life
It has simple, systematic steps that allows people to solve any problem effectively regardless of the situation
Following these six steps will equip anyone with the tools to better deal with problems and decisions in life
There are numerous other variations of problem solving, some may be the four step or five step but all the variations cover basic steps of the six step process.
This slide will discuss each step of the six problem-solving process ENJOY!
1.PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION
The first step is to anticipate the problem.
As simple as this may sound but this is a very important step because most problems are tied to very emotional issues.
First step can be attacked by first stepping back from the issue and contemplate on the cause of the difficulty.
How?
This can be done by a method called the “The Star Method” where by you actually follow four simple actions. The actions are in this order;
1. Stop 2. Think
3. Act
4. Review
If you are working as a group, it is crucial to discuss and give each individual a chance to contribute until you reach a consensus where by all individual agree.
This require cooperation, good intention and a willingness to be flexible about personal feelings and issues.
Once problem has been identified, it should be written down in a concise statement
If problem is too big, it is advisable to break it down into sections that are easy to solve.
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2. PROBLEM ANALYSIS
The second step is about looking deep into the problem and assessing the main cause of the problem.
Its important to use information from diverse sources to arrive at clearer understanding of the problem rather than being caught up into the symptoms of the problem.
You have to research on background causes to the problem and reach an agreement within yourself of what exactly went wrong.
This will enable you to plan forward on the solution to the problem.
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3. GENERATING POTENTIAL SOLUTIONS
This step aims at identifying and developingevery possible solution to the problem.
The best way to tackle this is through brainstorming and come up with as many ideas as possible.
If you are working in a group encourage each individual to say anything they think will solve the problem
There is no wrong answer here so please respect each others opinions.
Do Not Be Judgemental!!!
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4. SELECT AND PLAN THE SOLUTION
In this step it is important to prioritise the solutionthat would work best given the circumstance.
The idea is to look at each possible solution and evaluating its possible strengths and weaknesses then eliminatethose solutions that are weak.
Look at possible potential risks that may arise if the solution is implemented and then finally reach consensus on one solution
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5. IMPLEMENT THE SOLUTION
It’s now time to put the solution into action.
Basically this step is about moving an idea from concept to reality.
It is very critical to observe carefully what is going on in the solution and write down notes as they will be used in the last step.
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6.EVALUATE THE SOLUTION
The last step is about assessing how successful you have been in solving the problem.
If it didn’t work out, DON’T PANIC! But instead go back to the implementation stage and study carefully what went wrong and how it should have been done
This step also gives you the chance to review your solution and look for any possible improvements.
PROBLEM SOLVED!
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CONCLUSION
The six step problem solving process is an easier approach to deal with everyday issues be it in class or in the work place. Mastering these simple steps will save you time when faced with a problem. So the next time you are given a scientific problem assignment just employ these simple steps.
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1. IDENTIFY AND SELECT THE PROBLEM
5.IMPLEMET THE SOLUTION
6.EVALUATE THE SOLUTION
3. GENERATE POTENTIAL SOLUTIONS 4.SELECT
AND PLAN THE SOLUTION
2.ANALYSE THE PROBLEM
