In this unit we are working on case studies, and the problems that arise within the context of the scenario of a large school.  As TL’s, and even teachers, we are faced with problems everyday.

In the light of a our groups announcement, I am taking time to reflect on a part of the Module 3, 7 Steps to Problem Solving (BNET 2011).  Ed Muzio explains Dr ShoJi Shiba’s problem solving process.  In the real world we cannot apply this to every problem we encounter, however, they outline a process which can assist in problem solving and the decision process.

As TLs we are natural collaborators teaching our students to be innovative and creative thinkers.  We support our colleagues and students to exercise information literacy skills and the process which benefits our school context the best.  I think these 7 Steps to Problem Solving is a great example of Overt Problem Solving (n.a. 2019, Module 3.2).  In the context of this unit, these are steps I hope I can commit to implementing with my group, or at the very least keep in the back of my mind to maintain my own focus to the collaborative case study work.

The 7 Steps structure is unpacked further by Carter McNamara (2017).  He explicitly unpacks what each step needs to focus on and develop the organisation of the process.  This explanation from Carter (2017), provides depth to each step, which can support my group in ensuring all bases are covered, so to speak – particularly in the early days when we are still identifying our role in the group.

This being said, I am have seemingly expressed some preference to the this process.  However, it is important to mention that any strategy I gain knowledge is I add to my professional tool box to further develop my own knowledge and aim for best practice in all my collaborative adventures.  The Rational Approach (McNamara, 2017), as opposed to the Organic Approach, provides the group, and even, leaders a tangible process to check off and maintain focus to achieve the desired outcome through problem solving and decision making.

 

References

BNETvideo.  (2011, June 8). 7 Step Problem Solving Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZXDGQSuF9I

McNamara, C. (2017). Guidelines to Problem Solving and Decision Making (A Rational Approach). Retrieved from https://managementhelp.org/personalproductivity/problem-solving.htm#guide

n.a. (2019). Leading Change:  Decision Making and Problem Solving [Module 3.2 Leading Change]. Retrieved from https://interact2.csu.edu.au/webapps/blackboard/content/listContent.jsp?course_id=_42384_1&content_id=_2733070_1