Problem Solving Scenarios Assignment

  Problem Solving Scenarios/Problem Solving Process Directions: Choose one of the three scenarios listed below. Complete the seven-step problem solving process for one of the scenarios by typing your answers into a Word document. Scenario 1: Around the same time that your cell phone accidentally gets dropped in the pool, your contract with your current cell phone provider runs out. Going without a cell phone isn’t an option since your parents require that you stay in touch when you are out with friends. You need to get a new cell phone and a new contract and you could do this by renewing your contract or by changing providers. Be sure to consider all the things most important to you such as text messaging, etc., and remember that you also need an affordable phone and plan since you will be paying for everything. What would you do? Scenario 2: Imagine you and your family are talking about getting a new dog. Your parents have told you that you can pick out what breed to get. Your parents don’t care about size, but the dog must be good with young children and calm enough to stay indoors sometimes. It is up to you to decide what breed (and therefore what size) dog to get. You will be responsible for paying the purchase price, vet bills, food and all other costs for the dog. What should you choose? Scenario 3: Suppose that similar to many high school students you are short on cash. You are debating about getting a part-time job but are unsure if this is a good idea. You need to be making some money, but since you are so involved in other activities and you need to keep your grades up, flexible hours are important, too. What options do you have to earn money? You may want to consider owning your own business such as grass cutting, babysitting, dog walking, or giving horse back riding lessons. Also, consider traditional jobs such as sales in a department for or being a waiter/waitress in a restaurant. Which would you choose? In a Word document, type the steps to solve the one scenario you chose above by following the steps below: 1. Recognize the problem. Write a short description of the situation and dilemma : 2. Define the problem. Write about the specific dilemma. Be very specific about what needs to be decided. 3. Determine possible solutions. Write a list of solutions you might consider. List several including the most logical solutions. 4. Determine factors to evaluate solutions. List the factors to consider on your paper. 5. Test each possible solution. You may draw a chart on your paper like the one below to test each solution against the factors. Remember that some factors are likely to be much more important that others. 6. Select a workable solution. Write which solution you would choose. Explain in detail why you chose this solution. Use facts and logic to defend your solution. Refer to the factors/options in steps 4 or 5 if necessary. 7. Carry out your solution. What are the steps to carrying out your solution? What problems might you encounter?