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Unfolding Understandings: A History of the Alverno Learning Process

 

Problem Solving

At Alverno, one planned outcome of a student's education is the ability to solve problems. This includes defining a problem, selecting and applying problem solving processes and critiquing one's actions. Problem solving is focused on developing a student's ability to get things done through a conscious, organized process.

Problem solving overlaps with other ability areas in the Alverno curriculum, but it also involves unique qualities that are difficult to access. Included are the "imaginative ability to project consequences, and to pursue intuitive 'hunches;' "the perseverance to risk implementing a solution in the face of obstacles; and finally, the "flexibility to adapt to constraints and to learn from results." (2005) Ability-based Learning Outcomes, p. 23.


Statements of the Ability

Over time the statements describing the Communication ability have evolved and changed. To view the "4-pager" documents of statements of the ability from 1973 to the present, please visit the 8 Abilities Overview page in this guide.


Name Changes

Develop Workable Problem-Solving Skill ("Green Bible," August 1973)

Problem Solving Skills (1974)

Problem Solving Ability (1976)

Problem Solving (1981)


Leadership

Sheila Isakson                                                   Chair, 1974-1978

Kathleen O'Brien                                               Chair, 1978-1981

Zita Allen                                                           Chair, 1981-1982

Patricia Jensen                                                 Chair, 1982-1985

Allen Wutzdorff                                                 Chair, 1985-1986

Mary Georgia Matlock & Kathleen O'Brien      Co-Chairs, 1986-1987

Mary Georgia Matlock                                     Chair, 1987-1994

David Dathe                                                     Chair, 1994- Fall 1997

Dena Lieberman                                              Acting Chair, 1998

David Dathe                                                    Chair, Spring 1999- 2001

Rebecca Burton                                              Chair, 2001-2009

Patricia Walsh                                                Acting Chair, Spring 2005

Patricia Walsh                                                Acting Chair, Spring 2006

Patricia Walsh                                                Chair, 2009-2010

Lois Kailhofer                                                 Chair, 2010-