Scribd
Upload
3 views

Week 1 Problem Solving

This week's lesson focused on the significance of thoroughly understanding problems before attempting to solve them, introducing tools such as algorithms, pseudocodes, and flowcharts for effective solution planning. Key strategies emphasized include problem decomposition and algorithmic thinking, which aid in structuring and solving complex issues. A case study on optimizing inventory management illustrated the practical application of these concepts.

Uploaded by

klopienclaudia
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
3 views

Week 1 Problem Solving

This week's lesson focused on the significance of thoroughly understanding problems before attempting to solve them, introducing tools such as algorithms, pseudocodes, and flowcharts for effective solution planning. Key strategies emphasized include problem decomposition and algorithmic thinking, which aid in structuring and solving complex issues. A case study on optimizing inventory management illustrated the practical application of these concepts.

Uploaded by

klopienclaudia
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 3

Course Name

Introduction to
Problem Solving
Topic: Problem Solving

Week 1
Week 1
Introduction to Topic: Problem Solving
Problem Solving

In Summary

This week, we have learnt the importance of understanding problems thoroughly before solving
them and how to create effective solution plans. We have covered the concepts of algorithms,
pseudocodes, and flowcharts as tools for problem-solving. We emphasized problem decomposition,
algorithmic thinking, and planning skills for practical application.

Bullet point summary

• Understanding the significance of problem comprehension before solving.


• Introduction to algorithms, pseudocodes, and flowcharts for creating solution plans.
• Emphasis on problem decomposition as a key strategy.
• Explanation of what algorithms are and their role in structured problem-solving.
• Description of pseudocodes as textual representations of algorithms.
• Introduction to flowcharts as graphical representations of algorithms.
• The importance of clear and ordered problem-solving steps.
• Encouragement for practicing problem-solving skills systematically.

Case Study

Title: Optimizing Inventory Management

Scenario

You are a manager at a retail store facing inventory management challenges. You often
run out of popular products, leading to lost sales, or overstocking less popular items,
increasing carrying costs. You need to find a solution to optimise inventory levels.

© Copyright 2023 MIVA Open University All Rights Reserved Muniswamy, V. V. (2013). Design And Analysis Of Algorithms. IK International Pvt Ltd.
Key references:
“Human Powered Flight Group Webpage”. Royal Aeronautical Society. 2011. Retrieved 18 January
2021.
Week 1
Introduction to Topic: Problem Solving
Problem Solving

Case Study Questions to ponder

Tasks • Why is understanding the problem thoroughly considered a crucial


step in problem-solving? How can this concept be applied to real-life
situations?
• Analyse the problem thoroughly.
• What are the key differences between algorithms, pseudocodes, and
• Break the problem down into smaller components. flowcharts, and how do they aid in structuring and solving problems
• Create an algorithm or flowchart that outlines the steps for efficient effectively?
inventory management. • Can you think of a complex problem from your own life or work that could
• Develop a pseudocode to translate the algorithm into actionable steps. benefit from being broken down into smaller, manageable parts? How
would you go about decomposing it?
• Implement and test your solution plan.
• Reflect on a time when you faced a challenging problem. How would your
approach have differed if you had applied the concepts of algorithms,
pseudocodes, and flowcharts? What can you do to enhance your
problem-solving skills using these tools?

Skills and competencies you have acquired after this lesson

• Problem-solving skills.
• Algorithmic thinking.
• Planning and organization.
• Understanding complex problems.
• Breaking problems into manageable parts.

Personal reflection

Reflect on a recent challenge you faced and how understanding the problem and creating a
solution plan could have improved the outcome. Consider how algorithms, pseudocodes, and
flowcharts can be applied in your daily life to tackle complex issues more effectively.

© Copyright 2023 MIVA Open University All Rights Reserved Bransford, J. D., & Stein, B. S. (1993). The IDEAL problem solver.
Key references:
Treffinger, D. J., Isaksen, S. G., & Stead-Dorval, K. B. (2006). Creative

You might also like