Skip to main content

EVENT: Students as Problem Solvers

Date
Date
Thursday 18 May 2017, 15:00 to 17:00
Venue:
1.80 Chemistry West, University of Leeds

SUPPORTING STUDENTS to become successful problem solvers across STEM subjects is the focus of a joint masterclass by a world renowned academic.

Tina Overton, Professor of Chemistry at Monash University in Melbourne, Australia, will lead the event run jointly by the Pedagogic Research in Mathematics and Physical Sciences Group (PrISM), and the Leeds Institute for Teaching Excellence (LITE).

Professor Overton, who has been the recipient of multiple awards, including the Royal Society of Chemistry's HE Teaching Award, will present her research into how students problem solve when faced with a range of differing problems, the influence of cognitive factors and the route from 'novice to expert' problem solver.

Professor Overton says: "The ability to solve familiar and novel problems is an important attribute for life and employment and there has been much research that has explored the factors that affect student's success as problem solvers.

"This presentation will review our research into the differences between algorithmic, conceptual and open-ended problems in a  chemistry context and how cognitive factors may influence success. The different approaches used by students from various stem disciplines will be discussed as well as the journey from novice to expert problem solver."

The talk will be followed by light refreshments and an opportunity network.

Dr Samantha Pugh, Lecturer in STEM Education and Teaching Enhancement and Co-Leader of PrISM, says: "We are delighted to welcome Professor Overton to present at this Masterclass. Tina is a world-renowned leading light in pedagogic research, and has been an inspiration to many colleagues, particularly in the STEM disciplines.

"Whilst, however, the focus is on STEM disciplines, this talk will be interesting to all."

To help plan catering, attendees are encourage to register by Thursday May 11 using Eventbrite.