Engage your school communities in collaboratively solving your biggest problems
Schools are complex places where problems come in all shapes and sizes, and where decisions impact students’ lives. Leading groups in solving these problems sometimes can be a daunting task. Collaborative Problem-Solving outlines a process to help veteran and new leaders alike to create thoughtful, organized, and collaborative solutions for the simple to the most difficult problems they face.
Rooted in theory, this comprehensive guide presents a seven-step process that addresses all types of problems. Each chapter outlines the tasks and procedures required to successfully navigate each step, while providing helpful analogies and illustrations, alongside common foibles and fumbles leaders should avoid. Additional features include:
- An explanation of participatory problem-solving
- Prerequisites for successful collaboration and rules for collaborative leaders
- ‘Task Cue Cards’ that offer facilitation lesson plans to approach each step in the process
- A ‘Problem Solver’s Toolbox’ that covers meeting designs, roles, communication strategies, and more
- An annotated guide for further reading, providing a wealth of additional information and resources
Practical and relevant, this book is a user-friendly manual for school leaders seeking to employ a problem-solving process that works so that they and their teams can feel confident their efforts will result in a successful resolution.
Table of Content
Chapter 1: School Problem Solving in a Nutshell
Chapter 2: Identify and Define the Problem
Chapter 3: Develop a Common Understanding and Intent
Chapter 4: Image the Solution, and Determine Its Impact
Chapter 5: Develop the Solution Criteria and Select a Problem-Solving Procedure
Chapter 6: Define Search Strategies and Find Solution Alternatives
Chapter 7: Weigh the Alternatives and Decide on a Solution
Chapter 8: Solve the Problem
The Problem Solver’s Toolbox
For Further Reading and Bibliography
About the author
Brenda T. Mc Evoy taught high school English, history, and science for 36 years. Research skills were always part of her curriculum. For eight years, she worked for the California State Department of Education, leading groups of educators in improving their ability to edit and assess student writing. She has also served as a mentor for beginning English and history teachers. Participation in the California Writing Project extended her knowledge of writing and the difficulties students face when producing a major assignment. She has worked as an editor for several books, focusing on helping writers create work that is clear and logical.
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