Complex Problems
When problems are complex, they can seem unsolvable. Many times, a complex problem can have many different dynamic and inter-reliant components. A complex problem can also be defined as a unique problem that has not been encountered before, or a problem that is difficult to describe or measure.
Break it Down
It may help to break the problem into smaller components in an effort to see the big picture. Once these problem components are identified, they can be prioritized for analysis. For example, if a student has difficulties in the area of reading, it could be the result of deficits in any one of the five big ideas in reading:
- Phonemic Awareness: The ability to hear and manipulate sounds in words.
- Alphabetic Principle: The ability to associate sounds with letters and use these sounds to form words.
- Fluency with Text: The effortless, automatic ability to read words in connected text.
- Vocabulary: The ability to understand (receptive) and use (expressive) words to acquire and convey meaning.
- Comprehension: The complex cognitive process involving the intentional interaction between reader and text to convey meaning.
Even worse the problem could be a combination of two or more deficits combined. Problem solvers can make a list of the five big ideas in reading areas matched with corresponding assessments that measure each of the problems to help to clarify the problems.
Roles
It is important for the problem solver to understand their individual role in the problem and not be too quick to place blame. As it was stated before, Child specific problems could indicate larger problems in the classroom, building, district, or community. Consider all the factors that may contribute to a problem but understand there are a limited number of factors that school personnel can truly impact. If a student is performing poorly because of circumstances surrounding his home environment, school professionals can make changes in the school environment but have little hope of changing the home environment. Keep the focus on the components of the problem that school personnel can possibly effect.
Viewpoints
Different stakeholders with different viewpoints and interests may be involved in the process. It is important to consider different perspectives as they may help in creating more innovative solutions. For example, district administrators are required to allocate resources to the areas of greatest demand, while building principals feel pressure to raise test scores and teachers want to get struggling students the assistance they deserve. At times, these perspectives conflict and even compete with each other. Therefore, it is important to focus on the problem components and the best possible way to meet the needs of the student.
