Page 152 - Foundations of Learning, 4th Edition (Revised)

Problem Solving Methodology Case Study

Scenario: You are planning a vacation trip to the Caribbean on a budget of $3000.
You have narrowed the trip selection to two options: (1) an eastern Caribbean
7-day cruise or (2) a stay on the island of Antigua for a week to snorkel and scuba
dive. Both options are exciting. However, you want to take the trip that is within
your budget and which will allow you the most discretionary spending money for
fun and shopping. Which trip would you select?
Define the problem: State the problem or question as precisely as you can. It may help to ask, “Why is
this a problem?” Be sure you write a problem statement and not a potential solution.

Identify key issues: What are the issues that must be addressed by your solution?

Collect data and information: What information is required to solve the problem? What information is
available?

Identify assumptions: What assumptions are you making that will help to establish the scope of the
problem and influence your ability to successfully solve your problem?

Break the problem apart: Separate the problem into smaller sub-problems if necessary.

146 Foundations of Learning