Problem Solving Through Values A Challenge For Thinking And Capability

Leo Migdal

-Dec 3, 2025, 10:14 AM

problem solving through values a challenge for thinking and capability

The paper aims to introduce the conceptual framework of problem solving through values. The framework consists of problem analysis, selection of value(s) as a background for the solution, the search for alternative ways of the solution, and the rationale for the solution. This framework reveals when, how, and why is important to think about values when solving problems. A consistent process fosters cohesive and creative value-based thinking during problem solving rather than teaching specific values. Therefore, the framework discloses the possibility for enabling the development of value-grounded problem solving capability.The application of this framework highlights the importance of responsibility for the chosen values that are the basis for the... The 4W framework is meaningful for the people's lives and their professional work.

It is particularly important in the process of future professionals' education. Critical issues concerning the development of problem solving through values are discussed when considering and examining options for the implementation of the 4W framework in educational institutions. Keywords: 4W framework; Problem solving; Responsibility; Value-grounded thinking, Value-based choices. © 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. The 4 W framework: problem solving through values.

Academia.edu no longer supports Internet Explorer. To browse Academia.edu and the wider internet faster and more securely, please take a few seconds to upgrade your browser. Figure 1 The 4 W framework: problem solving through values. Problem solving through values: A challenge for thinking and capability development Abstract:The paper aims to introduce the conceptual framework of problem solving through values. The framework consists of problem analysis, selection of value(s) as a background for the solution, the search for alternative ways of the solution, and the rationale for the solution.

This framework reveals when, how, and why is important to think about values when solving problems. A consistent process fosters cohesive and creative value-based thinking during problem solving rather than teaching specific values. Therefore, the framework discloses the possibility for enabling the development of value-grounded problem solving capability.The application of this framework highlights the importance of responsibility for the chosen values that are the basis for the... The 4W framework is meaningful for the people's lives and their professional work. It is particularly important in the process of future professionals' education. Critical issues concerning the development of problem solving through values are discussed when considering and examining options for the implementation of the 4W framework in educational institutions.

In a world saturated with information, misinformation, and a barrage of daily challenges, effective problem-solving is an essential skill. But what if the process of problem-solving itself was reimagined, grounded not just in logic and reason but also in values? Values-based critical thinking offers just that, promising more holistic, ethical, and sustainable solutions. Let's explore why this approach is not only essential but also transformative. In an age where decisions are often made hastily, driven by immediate gains or external pressures, values-based critical thinking provides a beacon of hope. It ensures that our decisions are not just effective, but also ethical, considerate, and sustainable.

By integrating our core values into the fabric of our decision-making processes, we pave the way for solutions that not only address the challenges of today but also safeguard the well-being of tomorrow. This article is made available via the PMC Open Access Subset for unrestricted research re-use and secondary analysis in any form or by any means with acknowledgement of the original source. These permissions are granted for the duration of the World Health Organization (WHO) declaration of COVID-19 as a global pandemic. Dr Janine Brooks MBE discusses effective problem solving in our professional and personal lives, what it is to be a good problem solver and how you can improve your own problem-solving skills A problem is a gap or difference in what the situation is now and what you would like it to be. This means that problems can be universal - the same situation would be a problem for everyone or it may be specific to us or a group of people.

How we develop new, flexible, open-minded approaches or solutions to a problem is the creativity we employ. Critical thinking is how we examine and reflect on ideas and thinking (our own and those of others). Then judgments of the options are made on how best to proceed and a course of action decided upon. By combining critical thinking and observation, the problem is identified, information is gathered, beliefs and ideas are challenged, and different options are examined creatively. Asking questions of ourselves, others and the situation is the way to build critical thinking into problem solving, as shown in Figure 1. Problem solving is a fundamental human cognitive process.

Modern humans have been problem solving for hundreds of thousands of years. Our ability to solve problems is one of the factors that underpin our success as a species. Many of the problems our early ancestors had to solve may be less of an issue to us today, but the process is pretty much the same. Not every problem is one we have encountered before or one that can be easily and simply solved. Some problems are not static, they change over time, they allow for multiple valid solutions, and require active exploration before they can be solved, as Figure 2 shows.

Problem Solving Through Values A Challenge For Thinking And Capability

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