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Problem-Solving

Problem solving

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The Problem-Solving Group is an introduction to the definition of a problem and the steps to brainstorming and implementing solutions. It is usually presented to a group of higher functioning patients, and also employs several YouTube Video clips to illustrate the basic problem-solving process in action. The clips include the process of a pigeon attempting to reach a banana on a string using a box to stand on, a crow using a trial-and-error process with simple tools to obtain food in a tube, an orangutan using tools he has on hand to obtain a treat, and a three-year-old's brief brainstorming session on ways to keep the sun from setting. The patients find these basic illustrations entertaining, and they are very clear explanations of the concepts introduced in the group. They receive a printed copy of the PowerPoint lecture, and are encouraged to gather around a table to solve a problem as a group. The license plates are from a lesson plan related to an exhibit at the Smithsonian Institution in which the artist wrote every state and the District of Columbia and requested a particular message plate from each state. These plates were arranged in alphabetical order by state and mounted on the wall. Phonetically they spell out the Preamble to the Constitution of the United States. I present these plates, cut apart and mixed, to the patients with one single instruction: "Put these plates in order." They then use the problem-solving process presented to them to solve the puzzle. As they demonstrate concepts highlighted in the lecture, such as Brainstorming or Evaluating Progress, I point it out to them, but offer no further clues. The link to the .pdf of the license plates is http://www.realclassroomideas.com/resources/Bulletin+Boards-+License+Plate+Preamble.pdf

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Page 1: Problem solving

Problem-Solving

Page 2: Problem solving

We all have problems to solve…

Some are large… Some are not so large.

Page 3: Problem solving

Definitions of “problem”:

1. An opportunity for improvement

2. The difference between your current state and your goal state

3. The recognition of an imperfect present and the belief in the possibility of a better future

Page 4: Problem solving

The Importance of a Positive Attitude

A positive attitude is necessary from the beginning! It will dictate what your outcome is and how well you adapt to your new situation.

Page 5: Problem solving

Once We Recognize a Problem…Sometimes we go to extraordinary lengths to solve it, without making any positive impact.

Sometimes the problem returns, and we get stressed, and things aren’t any better…sometimes they’re worse.

Small problems can become big problems, and they affect all aspects of our lives.

Page 6: Problem solving

Do I Have a Problem?

Pay attention to your feelings about the

situation: Does it feelright?

Page 7: Problem solving

For Example…

Hot

Warm

Cold

Page 8: Problem solving

Define your problem1. What exactly aren’t I

happy about?

2. How does this affect me?

3. Can this be changed? (Does it need to be changed?)

4. Is it a problem or a fact?

Page 9: Problem solving

Think About How You Want Things To Be

1. How is this different from my ideal? (Do you have to define your ideal first?)

2. Be specific about how you want your outcome to be.

3. Are the steps I’ve tried before actually working?

4. How will I know when I get there?

Page 10: Problem solving

Brainstorm Possible Solutions

1. Think of as many solutions as you can.

2. Ask others for input.

3. Don’t be closed to the idea of implementing more than one solution at a time.

4. Come up with several different solutions.

Page 11: Problem solving

Pick a Solution (or Combination of Solutions)

1. Will this solution help me achieve my desired outcome?

2. How good or bad am I going to feel about it?

3. How much time and effort does this include? (Be realistic!)

4. Does this solution have more benefits than costs if I choose it?

5. Think up a “Plan B” in case the first solution doesn’t work.

Page 12: Problem solving

Implement Your Solution

1. Once you choose a solution, get to work on it.

2. Give your solution time to work.

3. Don’t expect it to turn out exactly like you imagined it would.

4. Don’t worry if there are objections or other problems present.

Page 13: Problem solving

Once things start to change…Forrest Gump

Lord of the Rings

The Chronicles of Narnia

The Harry Potter Series

Most Disney Movies

The Wizard of Oz

I Am Legend

Cider House Rules

The Time Traveler’s Wife

Fried Green Tomatoes

Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory

Field of Dreams

1. Other, seemingly unrelated, things may change as well.

2. People in your life may see your commitment and begin cooperating or helping.

3. “If all obstacles must first be overcome, nothing would ever be attempted.” –Samuel Johnson

4. Don’t feel “married” to your original solution.

Page 14: Problem solving

Evaluate Your Progress1. Did it work? Did I get

the outcome I wanted?

2. Make sure the problem was actually solved.

3. Remember that an “incomplete” outcome is better than no outcome at all.