The Ideal Problem Solver: A Guide to Improving Thinking, Learning, and Creativity (Paperback)

~ John D. Bransford (Author), Barry S. Stein (Author)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Provocative, challenging, and fun, The Ideal Problem Solver offers a sound, methodical approach for resolving problems based on the IDEAL (Identify, Define, Explore, Act, Look) model. The authors suggest new strategies for enhancing creativity, improving memory, criticizing ideas and generating alternatives, and communicating more effectively with a wider range of people. Using the results of laboratory research previously available only in a piece-meal fashion or in scientific journals, Bransford and Stein discuss such issues as Teaming new information, overcoming blocks to creativity, and viewing problems from a variety of perspectives. The Second Edition features: A new organization that focuses, in Part I, on the effective utilization of current knowledge and, in Part 11, on the explanation and use of the Ideal model. A refined problem solving model that is easier to understand and apply. A new chapter that explores strategies for improving how schools and organizations can prepare people to think and solve problems. New illustrative examples and exercises that encourage students to develop effective strategies for solving problems.

Product Details

• Paperback: 28 pages
• Publisher: Worth Publishers; Second Edition edition (February 15, 1993)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0716722054
• ISBN-13: 978-0716722052
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 6.1 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #720,263 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An IDEAL Approach, February 28, 2007

By	Lars P. Hanson "Delphi" (Vienna, VA United States) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Over the years and the editions, the authors have honed their ideas into an exceptionally useful tool. The first section describes a clear and logical method for solving problems and for evaluating the results. The second part touches on applied logic and indicates a few of the major logical errors and pitfalls which some might encounter.
In all, this is a superb book on how to think about problem-solving, a book which provides a handy and continuing reference, one which can be referred to time after time.
It's a keeper which belongs on the bookshelf of anyone interested in solving problems.

5.0 out of 5 stars This Book is GREATTT!!!, April 20, 2007

By	Freddy - See all my reviews

I am now finishing my thesis about collaborative problem solving and the IDEAL Method is the central methodology behind it. This book has also improved my day to day problem solving, at the beginning it may sound like a waste of time; but the bottom line is: IT REALLY WORKS!!!! So I recommend this book to ANYONE who wishes to improve it's ability to solve problems, critically analyze arguments and improve it's memory

10 of 18 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The IDEAL book for Thinkers, Learners, and Problem Solvers, June 21, 2000

By A Customer

Certianly the best text I've read in years. The book is concise. A tool for all who manage, supervise, and simply want to be a more creative thinker