Problem Solving

At Alverno, one planned outcome of a student's education is the ability to solve problems. This includes defining a problem, selecting and applying problem solving processes and critiquing one's actions. Problem solving is focused on developing a student's ability to get things done through a conscious, organized process.

Problem solving overlaps with other ability areas in the Alverno curriculum, but it also involves unique qualities that are difficult to access. Included are the "imaginative ability to project consequences, and to pursue intuitive 'hunches;' "the perseverance to risk implementing a solution in the face of obstacles; and finally, the "flexibility to adapt to constraints and to learn from results." (2005) Ability-based Learning Outcomes, p. 23.

Statements of the Ability

Over time the statements describing the Problem Solving ability have evolved and changed. Below are links to statements of the ability (from the "4-pagers") used from 1973 to the present:

Name Changes

Develop Workable Problem-Solving Skill (Green Bible, August 1973)
Problem Solving Skills (1974)
Problem Solving Ability (1976)
Problem Solving (1981)

Leadership