Problem Solving in Science Learning

Problem solving plays a central role in school science, serving both as a learning goal and as an instructional tool. As a learning goal, problemsolving expertise is considered as a means of promoting both proficiency in solving practice problems and competency in tackling novel problems, a hallmark of successful scientists and engineers. As an instructional tool, problem solving attempts to situate the learning of scientific ideas and practices in an applicative context, thus providing an opportunity to transform science learning into an active, relevant, and motivating experience. Problem solving is also frequently a central strategy in the assessment of students’ performance on various measures (e.g., mastery of procedural skills, conceptual understanding, as well as scientific and learning practices).