DEVELOPING PROBLEM SOLVING SKILLS IN MATHEMATICS AT PRIMARY, SECONDARY AND TERTIARY LEVELS

Abstract

Problem solving skills are learned essential skills requiring instruction and adequate practice. Mathematics teachers at any educational level (primary, secondary and tertiary) can develop and enhance these skills by choosing skills that will keep students engaged in the problem-solving process, structuring and discussing the stages of problem-solving process, and effective teaching practices. Creating a foundation, questioning techniques, modelling of problem-solving skills, guiding students’ problem-solving skills and constant practicing of problem-solving tasks are some effective teaching practices and strategies that teachers can engage in that will make good problem solvers at any educational level in mathematics. Developing problem solving skills in students thus makes them active in and out of class, improves their learning in mathematics, and makes them become confident and competent problem solvers in mathematics and in the real world.