Since I use this method I definitely need to watch for mathematical errors in my solutions. I think that this method and the skills I get from it are perfect for my future in the construction engineering industry. Do not spend a lot of time on theory just solve the problem presented.”
“The way I approach physics problems is by looking for a formula to follow. I will start a problem, look in my notes for a formula, look on the discussion board for a formula, look on the formula sheet for a formula, and lastly, look in the book for a formula. This is probably exactly I will approach some problems in Computer Science. If I need to implement a function, I will need to find the syntax for the function and a little excerpt saying what inputs it has and what outputs it has.”
And finally, here is an example of a student’s candid admission that reminds instructors how hard these introductory university courses can be:
“I feel lost in the questions that are asked and most of the time do not know where to start on the subject. I have a tutor but it seems like it is almost to late to relearn everything over the semester. I am not saying I am going to quit trying but I do feel lost.”
V. DISCUSSION
Key to students developing their problem-solving skills and strengthening their abilities to tackle ill-structured and open-ended challenges is for students to believe that problem