Orna Muller Tel-Aviv University, Israel.ppt

Orna Muller Tel-Aviv University, Israel Focus of research:Algorithmic Problem-Solving Schema Theory and problem-solving Schemas and problem-solving (Cont.) Analogical Reasoning A major problem-solving strategy: Using a familiar situation to make sense of a novel one. Analogical Reasoning phases: Identifying relevant schemas in memory; Mapping similarities between the current problem and a schema (or previous example); Making inferences; Adapting the schema to fit the new problem. (Gentner Holyoak, 1997) Why patterns? Reuse of algorithmic design solutions to similar problems at various situations is a central theme in CS, and the major driving force behind the definition of patterns. Utilizing Algorithmic Patterns in a problem solution An algorithmic solution consists of: Search pattern, Do all elements satisfy a condition? Adjacent elements traversal. Pattern-Oriented-Instruction Guidelines POI Guidelines (Cont.) Research Methodology Research Groups Research Tools Categorization Assignment Assignment description: Categorize eight algorithmic problems according to criteria chosen by the student. Categorization Assignment’s Goals Get insight of student’s early stage of problem analysis: Employing analogical reasoning; Grasping the essence of a problem; Formulation of an idea for a solution; Making links to other problems; Seeking POI impact. Preliminary Observations (cont.) Preliminary Observations (cont.) Thank You  * ICER - Seattle, Oct 1-2, 2005 What is the impact of patterns’ incorporation in instruction on the development of Problem-Solving skills ? Cognitive Theories Pedagogical Implications In Practice: Pattern-Oriented-Instruction (POI) POI Evaluation: Research Methodology Data Analysis Preliminary observations Our knowledge is organized in Cognitive Schemas, stored in memory. Cognitive Schema – The abstraction of similar experiences. In problem solving: A schema consists of a solu