An Analysis on the Characteristics of Problem-Finding and the Aspects of Using Science and Technology of Undergraduate Students’ Convergence Problem Solving Activity

Abstract

In accordance with the changing of society, remarkable increase in knowledge and information, the competencies to choose and use proper information in various domains are considered as an important skill. As one of the methods in developing these competencies, it is emphasized that a problem-based learning can make student understand and use knowledge by solving the contextualized problem. However, it is skeptical of learner’s development of competencies to use knowledge by solving well-defined given problem. Therefore it is required that students be allowed to develop the competency to find problem through experiences to determine and evaluate the purpose of the problem and method. The purpose of this study is to understand how undergraduate students use science or technology in finding a problem. In this line, this study articulated four cases conducted by participants who engaged in convergence teaching-learning program. And this study investigated the participants’ process of problem-finding, method and reason to apply science or technology. The results were drawn by analyzing interviews and written data, including their proposal, a poster, and final reports. Participants changed the form of problem from initial ill-structured one into a concrete one, where the participant could derive a detailed solution. Science or technology applied as the detailed example to convert problem into a concrete form, or as the analyzing tool or theoretical background of problem to make a link with other domain. Their reason of applying science or technology could be summarized in ‘personal interest based on prior experience’ and ‘alternatives to resolve a dissatisfaction.’ Based on the result, this study suggests holistic approach that is included in both intuitive thinking and logical thinking and metacognitive regulation to stimulate problem-finding in problem-based learning program.