Understanding Problem Solving in Mathematics
In the K-12 Mathematics Curriculum Framework, aside from critical
thinking, and the other main goal is problem solving. In fact, we can say
that the whole aim of education is to equip children to solve problems and be
good problem solvers and decision makers. Every person does problem
solving every day.
Problem solving is an application of mathematical skills and thinking to
problems faced in daily life. Everyday life is a constant process of problem
solving. Let’s read to the following definitions:
What is a problem as defined by some experts?
“A question is considered a problem if the procedure or method of solution is not
immediately known but requires one to apply creativity and previous knowledge in a
new and unfamiliar situations.”- George Polya
“A mathematical problem, like any problem in life, is defined as a problem because it
causes us much difficulty in attaining a solution. If the solution, or even the procedure
for solving it, is obvious, then it is no longer a problem but just an exercise.” - Alan
H. Schoenfeld.
“A problem is a situation in which a person wants something and does not know what
series of actions he can perform to get it.” - Henderson and Pingry
What is Mathematical Problem Solving?
“A situation, quantitative or otherwise, the confronts an individuals, that requires
resolution, and for which the individual sees no apparent or obvious means or path to
obtaining a solution”- Stephen Krulik and Jesse Rudnick (1980) in
Problem Solving: A Handbook for Teachers
“In problem solving, there must be a goal, a blocking of that goal for the individual,
and acceptance of that goal by the individual.” -Henderson and Pingry
(1953).
“Problem Solving means engaging in a task for which the solution method is not
known in advance. In order to find a solution, students must draw on their knowledge
and through this process, they will develop new mathematical understandings”-
National Council of Teachers in Mathematics (NCTM, 2000).
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Module 1. Mathematical Problem Solving
“Problem Solving means to understand the problem to be solved, to make a plan on how
to solve the problem, to act on the plan and evaluate the results of the solution. This
includes creating new procedures and multiple strategies to solve problem”-George
Polya
Genesis G. Camarista (2016) in his book, The Art of Problem
Solving p.8-9, presented the following diagram as to the definition of problem
solving:
GOAL OBSTACLE SOLUTION
Figure 1.1. Three Components of Problem Solving
The diagram shows that problem solving is a process and comprises
the following components: Goal, Obstacle, and Solution. Goal states what is
to be accomplished. The Obstacle presents a real problem that hinders one
from easily arriving at the solution. The Solution presents the achievement of
the goal after the strategy has been employed.
From all definitions above on mathematical problem solving, it can be
sum up that “problem solving is a process”. This process will be
thoroughly discussed in the succeeding sections of this module.
Some important qualities of a good problem solver are as follows:
1. Good problem solvers are good in guessing.
2. Good problem solvers are confident, focused, and courageous.
3. Good problem solvers flexible and uses variety of strategies.
4. Good problem solvers solve lots of problems and learns from
experiences.
Problem Solving, Mathematical Investigation and Modelling by Abad and Basmayor
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Module 1. Problem Solving
5. Good problem solvers need variety of problem solving situations in
which the focus is on the problem solving rather than on merely
obtaining a correct answer;
6. Good problem solvers take time to solve problems.
7. Good problem solvers have desire to solve problems.
8. Good problem solvers persevere when solving problems.
What are the benefits of problem solving?
Through the years, it has been the main goal of the Department of
Education, Curriculum Designers and Makers and mathematics educators to
equip the students with problem solving skills.
George Polya of Hungary (1965) expressed very well a student can
gain from problem solving:
“Thus, a teacher of Mathematics has a great opportunity. If he fills his allotted time
with drilling his students in routine operations he kills their interest, hampers their
intellectual development, and misuses his opportunity. But if he challenges the
curiosity of his students by setting the problems proportionate to their knowledge,
and helps them to solve problems with stimulating situations, he may give them a
taste for, and some means of, independent thinking.”
Camarista (2016) enumerated some benefits of problem solving as
shown in the schematic diagram below:
Problem Solving, Mathematical Investigation and Modelling by Abad and Basmayor
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Module 1. Mathematical Problem Solving
Avenue for
application of
concepts
Promote Identify students
Cooperative who have ability
Learning to transfer
knowledge
Discriminate
Venue for students with
Value varied
Integration BENEFITS OF mathematical
abilities
PROBLEM
SOLVING
Interesting and
Springboard to enjoyable way
the discussion of to learn
the new lesson
Mathematics
Enhances critical Gives variety
thinking skills and to a math class
creativity
Figure 1.2 Benefits of Problem Solving
Problem Solving, Mathematical Investigation and Modelling by Abad and Basmayor
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Module 1. Problem Solving
Problem Solving, Mathematical Investigation and Modelling by Abad and Basmayor
