A Problem Solving Approach to Animal Physiology

 

Susan K. Blizard and Steven Fehrer

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 1993, Volume 14

Abstract

A problem solving (PS) emphasis was used in a course for 15 students, sophomore through doctoral. Our working definition of PS included the ability to resolve a situation by knowing and recognizing pertinent facts, and being able to find at least one defensible alternative cause or outcome consistent with the student’s state of knowledge. Activities of PS included PS strategy handouts, instructor modelling of PS, whole class PS activities in which the instructor acted only as a recording secretary, written PS assignments for the weekly laboratory activities, and periodic individual PS assignments. Lecture and textbook materials established a knowledge base upon which PS activities were affixed for summary and review. The evaluation criteria used for the PS activities were based on the identification of the issue, important factors associated with the problem, and alternative solutions, as well as evaluation of alternative solutions, relevancy of outcomes, and defense of student’s preferred outcome. Written examinations also included 30% PS essay questions.

Keywords:  animal physiology

University of Nevada, Las Vegas (1992)