How can collaborative problem solving prepare students for the future of work and lifelong learning?

1 What is CPS and why is it important?

CPS is a process that involves four main steps: defining the problem, generating and evaluating solutions, implementing and monitoring the chosen solution, and reflecting and learning from the experience. CPS requires the ability to communicate effectively, share perspectives, negotiate roles and responsibilities, and coordinate actions with others. CPS is important because it helps students develop the skills and mindsets they need to succeed in a complex and uncertain world. CPS also enhances students' motivation, engagement, and self-efficacy, as they feel more empowered and valued as co-creators of knowledge.

3 How can you implement CPS in your classroom?

Implementing CPS in your classroom can be done in a variety of ways, depending on your goals, context, and resources. To get started, choose authentic and relevant problems that are connected to students' interests. Form diverse and inclusive groups for students to interact with peers who have different skills, perspectives, and experiences. Provide clear expectations and guidelines for the CPS process such as roles, responsibilities, timelines, and criteria for success. Facilitate and monitor the CPS process without intervening too much or too little. Encourage and celebrate reflection and learning throughout the CPS process, not just at the end. Use tools such as rubrics, checklists, or templates to scaffold and support students' CPS skills as well as methods such as journals, portfolios, or presentations to help them document and share their learning outcomes and processes.

4 What are the benefits of CPS for students and teachers?

CPS has many advantages for both students and teachers, as it boosts their learning outcomes and experiences. Students benefit from CPS by developing higher-order thinking skills such as analysis, synthesis, evaluation, and creativity. It also helps them to improve their social and emotional skills, such as communication, cooperation, empathy, and conflict resolution. Through CPS, students are more engaged and motivated to find the problems meaningful and challenging. They also gain confidence and autonomy as they take ownership and responsibility for their learning. Additionally, transferable skills and knowledge can be acquired through CPS that can be applied to other contexts and situations. Teachers benefit from CPS by fostering a positive and collaborative classroom culture where students respect and support each other. It also helps to create more student-centered and active learning environments where students take the lead and teachers act as facilitators. Furthermore, CPS enriches professional development for teachers as they learn from their students and peers. Finally, it enhances creativity and innovation for teachers as they design and implement new effective ways of teaching and learning.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?