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Teaching problem solving skills is not a focus of the Happy Kids curriculum, however extension activities offer the opportunity to implement more problem-based learning activities. Problem-solving software could fit in very well with cross-curricular extension themes in the sciences or social sciences. It is best used as an individual activity in the computer lab or in small groups as a collaborative exercise. Always call attention to the problem-solving skill you would like students to use during the exercise before the activity. Debriefing after the activity is a good idea too.
Problem-solving software is designed with the intention of teaching kids problem-solving skills. Problem solving is the mental process involved in achieving a goal when there is no obvious solution. While the math and sciences tend to incorporate more problem-solving skills in their instruction than the language arts, general problem-solving skills like recalling facts, breaking problems into a sequence of steps, and predicting outcomes are necessary for all students, and activities that can help develop these skills are valuable to any curriculum.
Problem-solving software can offer some considerable advantages to a teacher in the classroom. It can be difficult to construct an authentic problem-solving environment in the classroom. Students today are more used to screen-based entertainment than role playing activities and may find a computer-based environment more comfortable for problem-solving than role playing in front of their peers. Furthermore, using computer-based problem-solving activities limits the risks of failure and may motivate students to be more engaged and take more risks to solve the problem.
iCivics
iCivics is a civics education suite put out by the non-profit organization of the same name founded by former justice of the US Supreme Court Sandra Day O'Connor. The site contains a variety of games and activities that are meant to teach students different civics skills and concepts. Many of the games require a variety or problem-solving skills, and are meant to simulate real-life problems citizens face regarding civic participation. This would be a good resource for an extension activity to a theme on citizenship or community values.
ElectroCity
ElectroCity is a simulation type game that is designed to teach students about sustainable communities and clean energy. There are a lot of concepts addressed in the game, but one of the goals for the player is to build a city that is prosperous, but also environmentally friendly. To be successful, students must apply problem solving skills to balance the demands of the city's people, budget, and the health of the environment. ElectroCity works well as part of an extension activity for a theme on conservation or conflict between industry and nature.
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