Theories and Models of Problem Solving

Year
3
Academic year
2020-2021
Code
01741977
Subject Area
Psychology
Language of Instruction
Portuguese
Mode of Delivery
Face-to-face
ECTS Credits
6.0
Type
Elective
Level
1st Cycle Studies

Recommended Prerequisites

Knowledge related to the main theories with of psychology. Knowledge and skills on planning

Teaching Methods

Problem/project-based learning, in cooperation. Contents are presented (theoretical exposition, analysis of written and audiovisual documents, consultation of specialists), and students are invited to research or know systematizations (with the support of group dynamics, experiences, visits, forums of discussion) and structure the projects that are followed in tutoring. Based on a problem solving methodology, students make autonomous decisions and self-monitor work and network in addressing real problems, viewed in specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and within a time horizon solutions

Learning Outcomes

Define problem and problem-solving (PS)

Conceptualize problem-space

Framing PS in the main theoretical currents of Psychology

Characterize PS in the affinities and conceptual distances with other psychological processes

Differentiate methods of problem solve, methods of enhancing PS and research PS

Apply models in psychology evaluation and intervention

- mental models

- prescriptive PS models

Learning based on problems

Explain the development of problem-solving behaviors and reflect on its importance in adaptating to different environments

Understand the construction of expertise

Analyze problems / Proceed to cognitive task analysis / game analysis

Promote creative problem solving

Confront PS with personality variables (e.g. styles)

Solve problems cooperatively integrating knowledge and skills in project-based learning

Use cognitive tools through (technological) mediation to learn PS

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

Framework of PS in the context of the main theoretical currents of Psychology

Concepts: problem, problem space, and problem solving

Types of problems

Problem-solving strategies

Problem solving models (e.g., information processing).

Stage Models of PS

Representation of problems by novices and experts

The building of expertise

Conceptual affinities and distances of PS with other psychological processes (decision making, metacognition, motivation, creativity, ...)

PS and personality: styles

Problem-based learning

Cooperative problem solving

Creative problem solving

Problem-solving research methodologies

Problem-solving and the study / intervention based on gameplay (gamification, game-based learning and serious games) - relevance of approaches in social contexts of formal and non-formal education / training

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Synthesis work: 30.0%
Project: 70.0%

Bibliography

Csapó, B., & Funke, J. (2017). The nature of problem solving using research to inspire 21st century learning. Paris: OECD http://dx.doi.org/10.1787/9789264273955.

Ericsson, K., Hoffman, R., Kozbelt, A., & Williams, A. (Eds.). (2018). The Cambridge handbook of expertise and expert performance. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. DOI: 10.1017/9781316480748.

González, C. (2014). Estrategias para trabajar la creatividad en la Educación Superior: pensamiento de diseño, aprendizaje basado en juegos y en proyectos. Revista de Educación a Distancia, 40.

Moreno-Pinado, W.E., & Tejeda, M.E. (2016). Estrategia didáctica para desarrollar el pensamiento crítico.  Revista Iberoamericana sobre Calidad, Eficacia y Cambio en Educación, 15(2).

Rooney, P. & Whitton, N. (2016). Game-Based Learning and the Power of Play: Exploring Evidence, Challenges and Future Directions. Cambridge: Cambridge Scholars.

Suhr, J.A. (2015). Psychological assessment: a problem-solving approach. NY: The Guilford Press.