How to break down complex problems

As students advance in school, coursework often becomes more challenging, more intricate and sometimes overwhelming. Try this simple solution for helping students break down complex problems into manageable pieces with a fun and educational activity.

1. Identify the problem at hand and create an engaging brainstorm to help students solve the problem and map out potential solutions.
    
2. Start with a Post-it® Super Sticky Big Notes to call out the problem that needs to be solved. Apply the sheet(s) to a wall to initiate a large-scale vertical brainstorm alone or with a group of “study buddies” or like-minded friends.
    
3. Use Post-it® Super Sticky Notes or Post-it® Super Sticky Big Notes to list out all of the possible solutions to the problem. Assign a palette of colors such as blues or pinks to create overarching categories of solutions.
    
4. Use Post-it® Super Sticky Notes in another color palette such as “yellow” and “orange” to further build out solutions, ideas and actions to solve the problem.

    

Michele Borba, Ed.D is an internationally renowned educator, TODAY Show contributor and parenting expert recognized for her solution-based strategies to strengthen children's character and reduce peer cruelty. 

For more about her visit www.micheleborba.com or follow her on twitter @micheleborba.