Problem solving
Table 4 describes the tasks associated with the levels of difficulty of problem
solving knowledge and skills.
Table 4. Problem solving levels of difficulty
| Level |
Score |
Task |
| 1 |
0 - 250 |
Perform concrete task with limited amount of reasoning; draw direct
consequences |
| 2 |
251 - 300 |
Evaluate alternatives with well defined, explicit criteria; use step-by-step
reasoning combining information from different sources |
| 3 |
301 - 350 |
Order several objectives according to criteria; solve a problem involving
non-obvious or multiple constraints; reasoning is non-linear and requires
coping with multidimensional or ill-defined goals |
| 4 |
351 - 500 |
Judge completeness, consistency, dependency among multiple criteria,
explaining how solution was reached and why it is correct; reason using
meta-perspective, taking into account entire system of problem solving
states and possible solutions but criteria and goals must be inferred
before beginning solution process |
As an example, a scenario was described and the person was required to identify
and work through steps. Planning a trip and family reunion had steps including
setting a date for the reunion by processing, comparing and integrating information
from relatives’ appointments, an addendum and another appointment book.
Other activities included organizing activities according to requests and dates,
arranging flights and planning trips to and from the destination.