Problem solving

Problem solving /Standards 1- 10

UniSA (2011,p. 1) states “Problem solving is a process and skill that you develop over time to be used when needing to solve immediate problems in order to achieve a goal”. The problem solving process could include the following aspects; identify, explore, set goals, look at alternatives, select implement, evaluate (UniSA, 2011,p. 1).

Throughout my life and university studies I have developed exceptional problem solving practices. I have always been a confident, fair, smart, logical thinker. I believe this has helped me when I was a Retail Manager make the most suitable, important decisions. Being a mother has also influenced my problem solving skills as any parent will know, children are extremely complex individuals who constantly have problem solving issues such as: Why are they crying? How do I get them to eat vegetables?

I started my Bachelor of Learning Management Degree when my two children were aged 6 months and 2 ½ years old. I found that along with being a mother and a university student I uncounted many issues where I had to use my problem solving skills to achieve my goals. With these acquired life skills I have found it easier to problem solve in the classroom. Whilst on my internship there were many times where situations changed and I found myself using my problem solving skills to rectify issues, minor or severe.

'There were a couple of behaviour issues which Kym dealt with really well' (Thurecht, personal communication, August, 2011).

'She coped very well with the difficulties placed upon her by a learner who was struggling with the concepts being covered' (Thurecht, personal communication, August, 2011).

'Behaviour management was modified several times with different strategies used to keep the students on task' (Thurecht, personal communication, June, 2011).

'Kym has ensured that she is flexible in her learning experiences, and at times has had to change the learning experiences for a variety of reasons. Kym has taken this in her stride, and has continued teaching with little or no disruption to the class' (Cox, personal communication, September, 2011).

The one university course that I particularly feel covered the use of problem solving was Professional Knowledge in Context. One of the assessments was analysing an ethical dilemma, this concentrated on a real life dilemma in the school context. This gave me great insight into problems professional teachers face every day and the knowledge of how to handle them.

'Kym, you clearly understand the nature and complexities of ethical dilemmas as experienced by professional people in the postmodern world' (Isdale, personal communication, April, 2011).

I possess exceptional time management skills, not only at work but in my everyday life. I always complete tasks on time and to a high standard. I have always been a very well organised, efficient person and I have found that this has aided with my time management skills.

'Kym had a very well planned and organised lesson today.'(Thurecht, personal communication, September, 2011).

'Excellent lesson Kym, time management was great!' (Thurecht, personal communication, June, 2011).

'Throughout her internship Kym has shown exceptional time management skills' (Thurecht, personal communication, September, 2011).