AWT4CL 04 Identify and Analyze Problems Badge

Author: Curtis R. Friedel   --

Solving complex problems can be challenging, and often more complexity in the problem requires more individuals to be involved as a team. To facilitate the problem-solving process in a team, it helps to think about the different aspects of solving a problem. These include characteristics of the individual, the desired outcome from solving the problem, the situation or context of the problem, and the problem-solving process. Each of these aspects of the problem-solving are independent of each other. 



To be able to better Identify and Analyze Problems, one must better understand the complexity of problems of agriculture that affect everyone from producers to consumers. Knowing what step one is in the problem-solving process, can indicate what step is next and what technique to use. If we use the right techniques throughout the problem-solving process, we can be more effective in finding solutions that offer the most benefit.
More About Badges

One can earn a digital learning badge to improve skills in identifying and analyzing problems. Earning the badge Identify and Analyze Problems shows understanding of how to apply techniques appropriately to complete the problem-solving process. Separating the process from the situation, desired outcomes, and the people involved paves the way for finding better solutions.

What is the Identify and Analyze Problems Badge?

The Identify and Analyze Problems Badge can be used to show how the learner thinks more deeply about a problem. In the current environment of quick soundbites and simple reasoning, earning this badge requires the learner to use a problem-solving approach to examine the complexities of an issue. To earn this badge, students are led by an instructor or facilitator to identify root causes and probable solutions.

To earn the Identify and Analyze Problems Badge, learners must demonstrate these abilities:
  • Identifying the root cause of a problem through analysis of possible contributors and the context of the situation.
  • Brainstorming possible solutions/approaches to address the problem effectively.
  • Providing recommendations to the team on the best solution/approach to address the problem based on the current information known.
Instructors can tailor the specific tasks that learners need to complete in order to earn the badge, based on the needs of their course or program. To help you get started, we have provided an example assignment below.

Example Assignment: Practice Identifying and Analyzing Problems
Have the learner identify a complex problem associated with the USDA Research Priorities or the United Nations Sustainability Goals. Have the learner write a 10-page single-spaced paper, which discusses the 1) context of the problem, 2) methods of finding solutions, and 3) recommendations for implementation.

The final paper should address these questions:
  • What is the main problem you are trying to solve?
  • What is the root cause of the problem and challenges associated with it?
  • Explain how and why the most viable solution was chosen?
  • How do you believe your recommended solution will be received by your team, and why?
Have students present conclusions and recommendations to fellow learners in the class.
Start Awarding Badges Today
Get ready to enhance your instruction and help learners better prepare for their careers.  You can start awarding badges to learners today by setting up an Identify and Analyze Problems activity. Check out the resources to get started,  especially the AWT4CL Implementation Guide.
 


Image Credits: 
Untitled Photograph. (2015). [Blurred image of a person with a graphic overlay of a root cause analysis drawing].  Retrieved from https://alterevoingenieros.blogspot.com/2015/11/rcm-9-if-something-goes-wrong.html
Monopoly919. (n.d.).  Grass with a technology graphic overlay [Photo].  Adobe Stock 223792791.

Project Resources:
Instructor Welcome Module
AWT4CL Project Website
AWT4CL Implementation Guide - instructions and example assignments for each badge
APLU - Association of Public & Land-grant Universities Employability Skills
Badging System - AWT4CL Badgr/Canvas Credential badges, maintained by Virginia Tech 

Location: Blacksburg, VA, USA

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