Problem-Solving — Example
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Example of using problem-solving in an online discussion to facilitate to integration and documentation of student learning.
Problem-Solving — Example
In his Organizational Theory course, the professor has developed several online modules on different decision-making models: rational choice, incremental bargaining, bounded rationality, and means-end hierarchy. To help students understand these models fully, he creates discussion activities using Analytic Teams approach. He divides students into groups of four and assigns each student to one of the four roles (Summarizer, Connector, Proponent, and Critic). He gives the students a case study detailing a complex situation that requires a decision. Students should review the case as if they were a consultant to the organization in the case. Each student is to post his/her decision-making model, describe how it might be applied to the case, and suggest a solution based on that model. Students argue their cases and decide which solution they would adopt to guide their decision-making process, along with a rationale for why it was the best choice (Barkley 251-252).
- Discussion Prompt: Review the case study you were assigned. In your group forum within the Canvas Discussions tool, post your decision-making model using your assigned role (Summarizer, Connector, Proponent, and Critic). Describe how it might be applied to the case, and suggest a solution based on that model.
- Response Prompt: After reviewing each post, decide which solution you would adopt to guide your decision-making process, along with a rationale for why it was the best choice.
- Followup Activity: The group members must decide on the best solution and present the solution and rationale in a separate post.
- Points: Students received up to 20 points for the activity.
| Example Post | Example Response |
|---|---|
|
Hi, our case focused on the incremental bargaining model of decision-making. In responding to this case, I was assigned the role was Critic. Based on this role, the following is my solution: |
Thanks for your post and your solution, after reviewing your solution I have identified the following strengths and weaknesses. We can use these as we weigh each of our solutions. |