Problem solving is the essence of scientific investigations. Students are given a problem or they identify a problem, then they follow the guidelines of problem based learning (PBL) to solve in the problem. As they follow the investigative process, they use the science process skills which are the methods and procedures of scientific investigation.
Problem solving relies heavily on the effective use of the science process skills by students to complete an investigation. Problem based learning, like problem solving, also relies on the proper use of the science process skills by students to solve problems.
Problem Solving in Science
Problem solving in science is typically referred to as the scientific habits of mind. These include:
- Asking Questions – based on observations and prior knowledge and experience.
- Constructing Hypotheses – to guide an investigation.
- Designing – and conducting a science investigation.
- Repeated Trials – conducting an investigation several times to average the data and determine the legitimacy of the data.
- Accurate Records – keeping accurate data for all observations and investigations.
- Drawing conclusions – based on the scientific investigation and prior knowledge and experiences.
- Using data – to develop reasonable explanations of scientific investigations.
- Realizing – that different conclusions can be drawn from the same set of data and are still correct.
The Science Process Skills
The science process skills are the foundation of problem solving in science and the scientific method. These skills are separated into two categories – basic and integrated. The six basic science process skills (grades K-12) are:
- Observing – using the 5 senses to find out information about objects: an object’s characteristics, properties, similarities, and other identification features.
- Classifying – the process of grouping and ordering objects.
- Measuring – comparing unknown quantities with known quantities, such as: standard and non-standard units of measure.
- Communicating – using multimedia, written, graphs, images, or other means to share findings.
- Inferring – forming ideas to explain observations.
- Predicting – developing an assumption of the expected outcome.
The five integrated science process skills (grades 5-12) include:
- Formulating a Hypothesis – making a prediction (educated guess) based on evidence of prior research and investigations.
- Variables – naming and controlling for the independent, dependent, and control variables in an investigation.
- Operational Definitions – develop specific terms to describe what is happening in the investigation based on observable characteristics.
- Experimenting – carrying out an investigation.
- Interpreting Data – analyzing the results of an investigation.
Recommended Problem Based Learning Skills
After reviewing both problem solving in science and the science process skills, you can see that these approaches to science investigations have similar characteristics. Considering this, the following are recommended strategies for conducting science investigations:
- Ask Questions – have students reflect on prior knowledge and experiences to develop their questions as they analyze the problem at hand.
- Problem Statement – a hypothesis of based on the results of answers to questions and prior knowledge and experiences.
- Isolate and Control Variables – work with one independent and dependent variable at a time to avoid confusion and erroneous data. Be sure they identify variables that do not change throughout the investigation – control variables.
- Record Keeping – accurately record answers to questions for comparison with data collected.
- Reason by Analogy – an inference that findings are related to similar findings in a related investigation.
- Model – use diagrams, concept maps, graphs, pictures, physical models, and other means to explain an investigation’s findings.
This procedure is an advanced step to conducting scientific investigations using an inquiry-based approach to problem solving in science.
Visit Scientific Method and Problem Based Learning for additional information regarding the connection between these two methods. Also, visit Understanding Scientific Inquiry for additional ideas regarding student problem solving in science.
David R. Wetzel - Dr. David Wetzel's experience includes more than 25 years in continuing, adult, and teacher education.
Join the Conversation