Benefits of Problem Solving
Benefits of Problem Solving Problem solving places the focus on the student making sense of mathematical ideas. When solving problems students are exploring the mathematics within a problem context rather than as an abstract. Problem solving encourages students to believe in their ability to think mathematically. They will see that they can apply the maths that they are learning to find the solution to a problem. Problem solving provides ongoing assessment information that can help teachers make instructional decisions. The discussions and recording involved in problem solving provide a rich source of information about students' mathematical knowledge and understanding. Good problem solving activities provide an entry point that allows all students to be working on the same problem. The open-ended nature of problem solving allows high achieving students to extend the ideas involved to challenge their greater knowledge and understanding. Problem solving develops mat