CAPES NOTES

Objective #1: Explain the concept of problem solving

A problem can be defined as an obstacle which makes it difficult to achieve a desired goal,
objective or purpose; while problem-solving is a systematic approach to defining the problem
and creating different solutions to correct the problem.

Objective #2: Describe the stages of the problem-solving process

Stages:
1. Define the problem
2. Analyze the problem (using tools, such as questionnaires, interviews, observation,
reviewing documents)
3. Identify and evaluate possible solutions
4. Select and justify the optimal solution
5. Implement
6. Review

Objective #3: Describe the role of information in the solution of real-life problems

Identification of the information necessary for the solution of personal, commercial, scientific
and social problems.

Categorization of information as essential, desirable, extraneous or cosmetic in the solution of a

problem.

Essential Information- Information becomes extremely important based on the purpose it will
serve or the problem that it will be used to solved. Information is also considered essential when
delivered in a timely manner, is factual and reliable.

Desirable Information- Information becomes desirable once it appears useful or helpful in

solving the problem.

Extraneous Information-

Cosmetic Information

Objective #4: Explain how information can be used to solve real-life problems
Criteria for rejecting or accepting a piece of information including:

● Bias- Bias is one way in which information may be rejected. Bias will occur as a result of
not utilizing valid or factual sources to retrieve information. Relying on one source is said
to be biased, as other means were not exploited to carry out further investigation or make
adequate comparison.

● Accuracy- Accurate information is said to truthful or correct information. In accepting

information, the researcher has to ensure that whatever information is being collected is
actually true. Various methods can be implemented to check for information accuracy.

● Cultural context- Cultural context looks at the society in which persons live and how
their culture can affect their behaviour and their opportunities. Base on their background
or way of life, the provided solution may not be effective to solving their current
problem; but rather worsen it. Information being sources will be based on the values and
attitudes that matter to these persons and about how they formed.

● Completeness- Incomplete information is not considered to be valid, as there is some

information that may be useful to solving the problem missing. One should ensure that
the information is complete, so that it does not become difficult or take a longer time to
solve the problem.

● Currency of information- Outdated information will not be effective in solving a

problem. Persons should ensure that the information being collected is current and useful
in modern society. Outdated information may actually be the reason why the problem
was not solve or got worse.

● Refereed and unrefereed sources- Refereed sources are those are experts in their field
and their work have been reviewed by various experts who have the authority to fairly
judge their work. Unrefereed sources on the other hand, are those which did not receive
any peer or expert review or fair judging. As such, information from refereed sources are
normally considered to be unbiased and accurate to be used by others.

● Characteristics of information on the Internet

Objective #5: Analyze the role of information in fulfilling the goals of an individual or
organization

Information used in decision-making and problem-solving

Capitalizing on opportunities.