Problem solving

Problem solving is one of the key skills to have in life and supporting this, Noyes, A (2007) states that Maths is a requirement for pupils to contribute and participate within society. Children are taught maths and problem solving to enhance their skills, preparing them for their future in our society. Although, the way maths is presented in the classroom can be off putting for children as some practitioners use the traditional method of teaching, which is standing in front of the classroom and sharing information rather than involving students and allowing discussion. Using Problem solving in maths can arguably address the purposes of the curriculum;

1.      ambitious, capable learners, ready to learn throughout their lives

2.      enterprising, creative contributors, ready to play a full part in life and work

3.      ethical, informed citizens of Wales and the world

4.      healthy, confident individuals, ready to lead fulfilling lives as valued members of society.”

(Donaldson, 2015, p.29)

The reason for this belief is because if children are able to problem solve, they may possibly become more “ambitious, capable learners, ready to learn throughout their lives”, and this relates to the term ‘life long learners’. (Donaldson, 2015, p 29). Problem solving could also help pupils to develop a better understanding of mathematical concepts and build confidence when using maths in everyday situations. Supporting this, Donaldson (2015) mentions that “it includes experiences that enable children and young people to develop their broader numeracy skills by exploring relationships in quantities, space and data, and to apply them to real-life situations” (2015, p 49), helping children to gain a better understanding of the world around them and manage their lives, giving them skills to make informed decisions. Agreeing with this, Mooney, et al. (2014) states that “children need to develop a good mathematical understanding in order to function effectively as members a society” (2014. P 11). 

Donaldson also believes that problem solving in maths can also support children in further developing their holistic skills, “particularly, critical thinking, problem solving, planning, organization, creativity and innovation” (Donaldson 2015, p 49). Pratt (2016) supports Donaldson simply by mentioning that problem solving alters the kind of knowledge they develop, as “Children taught through problem solving and mathematical thinking simply develop a different kind of mathematical knowledge than those taught through explanation and routine practice.” (2006, p.62).  

This video tells us three reasons why we need problem solving skills in life; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-6IMRBDvOwo 

Problem solving comes naturally to children as they are new to the world and have many curiosities. Due to this, “they exhibit curiosity, intelligence, and flexibility as they face new situations…they are able to shape and to solve mathematical problems is the essence of con-structing mathematical meaning”, allowing them to critically think (Pound and Lee, 2011, p 25).  Teachers can be restricting when it comes to maths. Relating to this, Resnick (1988) has mentioned that some practitioners tend to use stereotypical problems and provide certain rules in order for children to respond with a simple- minded answer (1988, p 4). This can hold students back from ‘thinking outside the box’ or questioning things.

References

Donaldson, G. (2015). Successful futures: Independent review of curriculum and assessment arrangements in Wales. Welsh Government.

Mooney, C., Hansen, A., Ferrie, L., & Wrathmell, R. (2014). Primary mathematics : Knowledge and understanding (Seventh ed., Achieving QTS).

Noyes, A. (2007). Rethinking school mathematics. London: Paul Chapman Publishing

Pratt, N. (2006) Interactive Maths Teaching in the Primary School. London: Sage.

Resnick, L. B. (1988) ‘Treating mathematics as an ill-structured discipline’, in R. I. Charles and E. A. Silver (eds) The Teaching and Assessing of Mathematical Problem Solving. New Jersey: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.

YouTube (2018). 3 Reasons Why It's Important To Solve Problems. [image] Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-6IMRBDvOwo [Accessed 4 May 2019].