Click for Site Map and Index home
10 Types of Home Problems

  1. Problems that require simple calculations, or formula substitution. These problems will bolster confidence, they are often limited to the knowledge and comprehension levels of Bloom's Taxonomy.
    Homogeneous Example 1          Heterogeneous Example 1

  2. Problems that require intermediate calculations or manipulations. This type of problem may seem unsolvable at first glance, causing the student to go back and re-read the text and lecture notes. One needs to know what laws apply to make these calculations; consequently, this is level 3 in Bloom's Taxonomy application.
    Homogeneous Example 2          Heterogeneous Example 2

  3. Problems that are over-specified so the student has to decide which data and conditions are relevent.
    Homogeneous Example 3          Heterogeneous Example 3

  4. Problems that are under-specified so the student has to consult other information sources in order to complete the problem.
    Homogeneous Example 4          Heterogeneous Example 4

The Following Types of Problems will Receive Greater Emphasis in the Digital Age

  1. "What if..." problems that promote discussion
    Homogeneous Example 5          Heterogeneous Example 5

  2. Problems, or parts of problems (i.e. extensions), that are open-ended.
    Homogeneous Example 6          Heterogeneous Example 6

  3. Problems where the student must explore the situation by varying operating conditions or parameters. Here, the student may need to create techniques or guidelines to learn whether or not the solution is reasonable. Ordinary differential equation (ODE) solvers can be used to explore the problem.
    Homogeneous Example 7          Heterogeneous Example 7

  4. Problems that challenge assumptions. The student can use ODE solvers or process simulators to redo the problem, changing the assumptions to learn the effects on the answer.
    Homogeneous Example 8          Heterogeneous Example 8

  5. Problems where groups of students work on different parts (or the same part) then come together for discussion. The discussion provides the opportunity for the students to explore different points of view, as well as interact and increase their interpersonal skills.
    Homogeneous Example 9          Heterogeneous Example 9

  6. Problems that develop life-long learning. These problems address the issue of teaching the students to learn on their own. With the explosion of knowledge that is occuring, it will be essential that they be able to learn material independently (i.e.. life-long learning skills).
    Homogeneous Example 10          Heterogeneous Example 10


CRE > Thoughts > Ten Types