Chapter 6: Problem Solving

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this chapter, you will be able to:

• Provide theoretical and practical examples that demonstrate the importance of collaboration in developing the problem-solving abilities of young children.
• Draw from professional experience to reflect on your familiarity with collaborative problem-solving when working with young children.
• Assess when it is appropriate to promote a process-oriented approach (rather than one that is task or goal-oriented) while observing children’s problem-solving.
• Explain problem-solving components and identify how they are integrated into activities such as building blocks and puzzles.
• Compare cross-cultural approaches to children’s problem solving and collaboration.