So, we can agree that problem solving is a necessary skill for current students to develop, but can it really be assessed well? Wouldn’t it be like trying to assess a moving target? These are fair questions, given the moving parameters of the pursuit of problem solving.
It’s really about process and how to assess various stages of a process. It’s also often best observed in projects that build towards an outcome. In 2012, PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) laid out a framework to help capture the process.
They suggest: Using this framework a problem can be categorized and the problem-solving process (not necessarily linear as shown) described and evaluated.
As you can see, the framework identifies the stages of the process and the application in a real context of use. Therefore, the assessment values each stage of the process as well as the outcome.
TIP: Assessing problem solving values the entire process
Coming up next, “What does coding have to do with problem solving?”. Stay tuned...