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Psychology for teachers: General problem solving and problem solving in science education
Citation
Tan, A. G., & Lee, L. K. W. (1999).Psychology for teachers: General problem solving and problem solving in science education. In S. P. Loo (Ed.), Proceeds of the MERA-ERA Joint conference 1999: Educational Challenges in the New Millennium (pp. 1109-1116). Malacca, Malaysia.
Abstract
Problem solving is an important topic in various school subjects such as mathematics
and sciences. The models problem solving and steps proposed to solve a problem have been
one of research areas in psychology. This paper intends to provide an overview of psychology
of problem solving and various themes of problem solving proposed by psychologists. First the
classical examples of problems are presented. Then, features of social and non-social problem
solving are discussed. In addition, the individual and group problem solving styles are
introduced. Furthermore, generic and domain-specific problem solving are elaborated. For the
discussion of psychology of problem solving in education, we highlight models of problem
solving in science education, the application of problem solving in science education, and
difficulties of teaching problem solving in schools. Lastly, implications of models and
application of problem solving for educators are presented.
Date Issued
December 1999
Description
This paper was published in the 1999 Proceedings of the MERA-ERA Joint Conference held at Malacca, Malaysia from 1-3 December 1999