Section 6 EO M303.06 – SOLVE PROBLEMS

The eight steps in logical analysis were taught in the previous year (M203.06 Employ Problem Solving, A-CR-CCP-802/PF-001, Royal Canadian Air Cadets, Level Two Instructional Guides, Chapter 3, Section 6). They are:

1.confirming the task;

2.identifying the problem;

3.determining the critical factor;

4.developing alternative solutions;

5.comparing alternative solutions;

6.determining the best solution;

7.implementing the solution; and

8.evaluating the plan and the implementation.

The IRISE method of problem solving was developed for adolescents.

IRISE is an acronym. The IRISE method of problem solving has five steps. They are:

1.Identifying the Problem. To be able to solve a problem, cadets must understand what the problem really is. If the problem is not clearly identified, a problem may be solved but it may not be the “real” problem. Questions that should be asked in step one include:

2.Researching All of the Options. This step involves “brainstorming” options to solve the problem. Cadets will have to research each option. Some options will need to be discussed outside the team and some options will need to be critically and methodically investigated. There will be some options which will solve the problem easily and some options will be more difficult. Some questions may need to be asked, such as:

3.Identifying the Consequences of the Options. Each option will have consequences. Ensuring the cadets know what the consequences may be before putting a decision into action, may help to eliminate options with undesirable consequences. There may be consequences to options that will not be known, but these should be very limited.

4.Selecting the Most Appropriate Option. This is the step where the option is selected and implemented. Once an option is selected, a plan for implementation should be created. It is now time to put the plan into action.

5.Evaluating the Decision. Once the plan is implemented, evaluate the decision. Examine the implementation of the option and the needs that may not have been anticipated. Questions may include:

The TEACH method of problem solving was developed for a team approach. The TEACH method of problem solving is another situation where positive team dynamics should be displayed.

TEACH is an acronym. The TEACH method of problem solving has five steps. They are:

1.Time. This first step involves spending time to discover the real issue or problem. With the assistance of the team the “real” problem must be identified. Questions that should be asked in the “time” step should be the same as the identifying the problem questions for the IRISE method.

2.Exposure. This second step involves uncovering what others have done in a similar situation. By using information gathered from others, the number of options that may be created to solve the problem should increase.

3.Assistance. This third step involves having your team study all the information from different perspectives. The team will be a great asset because differing views, based on knowledge and experience of the same issue, will lead to a better result and a more collaborative environment.

4.Creativity. This fourth step involves having the team “brainstorm” options and the consequences of those options. Again, the team will be a great asset because of differing views based on knowledge and experience.

5.Hit it. This last step involves implementing the best option. The team will help develop a plan to implement the selected option. After the option has been implemented, evaluation of the option and its implementation will need to take place. Questions to evaluate the implementation should be the same as the IRISE method of problem solving.

The cadets’ participation in the activity will serve as the confirmation of this TP.

The cadets’ participation in the problem-solving activity will serve as the confirmation of this lesson.