Problem Solving Course

Lesson 1 • Defining Problems and Problem Types

Establishes precise definitions of problems and classifies them by structure and complexity. This taxonomy anchors all subsequent analytical methods in the course.

Lesson 2 • The Problem-Solving Mindset

Cultivates attitudes that sustain effective problem solving under pressure and ambiguity. Mindset shifts directly improve persistence and solution quality.

Lesson 3 • How the Mind Approaches Problems

Examines cognitive processes behind problem solving, including intuition and deliberate reasoning. Understanding mental defaults helps learners override unproductive habits.

Lesson 1 • Defining and Scoping the Problem

Teaches techniques for writing precise problem statements and setting scope boundaries. A well-scoped problem prevents wasted effort and misaligned solutions.

Lesson 2 • Evaluating and Selecting Solutions

Provides criteria-based methods for comparing and choosing among candidate solutions. Structured evaluation reduces bias and improves decision confidence.

Lesson 3 • Overview of Major Frameworks

Surveys widely used problem-solving models and their design logic. Comparing management frameworks helps learners choose the best fit for each situation.

Lesson 4 • Gathering and Organising Information

Covers methods for collecting relevant data and structuring it for analysis. Organised information reduces noise and accelerates insight generation.

Lesson 1 • Principles of Root Cause Analysis

Explains why addressing root causes outperforms symptom treatment and introduces the RCA mindset. This foundation prevents misapplication of specific tools.

Lesson 2 • The Five Whys Method

Teaches iterative questioning to drill from symptom to cause. Learners practise applying and stopping the technique at the appropriate causal depth.

Lesson 3 • Fault Tree and Event Analysis

Covers top-down deductive analysis for identifying failure pathways in systems. This method is especially valuable for high-stakes or safety-critical problems.

Lesson 4 • Selecting and Combining RCA Tools

Develops judgment for matching RCA tools to problem characteristics and combining them effectively. Integration of tools produces more robust causal conclusions.

Lesson 1 • Lateral Thinking and Reframing

Introduces techniques for approaching problems from unexpected angles to unlock novel solutions. Reframing breaks habitual thinking patterns that block innovation.

Lesson 2 • Principles of Creative Thinking

Explains the neuroscience and psychology behind creative ideation and divergent thought. Understanding creativity mechanics helps learners deliberately activate it.

Lesson 3 • Brainstorming and Ideation Techniques

Teaches structured and unstructured ideation methods for individuals and groups. Varied techniques prevent groupthink and expand the solution space.

Lesson 1 • Argument Construction and Critique

Develops skills for building persuasive, evidence-backed arguments and critiquing others' reasoning. Strong argumentation is essential for gaining support for solutions.

Lesson 2 • Data Interpretation and Evidence Use

Teaches how to read, question, and draw conclusions from quantitative and qualitative data. Evidence-based reasoning separates rigorous analysis from opinion.

Lesson 3 • Structured Analytical Frameworks

Introduces MECE thinking, issue trees, and hypothesis-driven analysis for complex problems. These management frameworks impose discipline on messy, multi-variable situations.

Lesson 4 • Foundations of Logical Reasoning

Covers deductive and inductive reasoning structures and their roles in problem solving. Sound logic prevents conclusions that outrun available evidence.

Lesson 1 • Communicating and Committing to Decisions

Covers how to present decisions clearly and build commitment from stakeholders. A well-communicated decision is more likely to be implemented effectively.

Lesson 2 • Tools for Structured Decision Making

Teaches decision trees, scenario analysis, and multi-criteria tools for complex choices. Structured tools make implicit trade-offs explicit and auditable.

Lesson 3 • Managing Bias in Decision Making

Identifies decision-specific biases and provides debiasing strategies for individuals and teams. Bias management is critical when stakes are high and data is limited.

Lesson 4 • The Nature of Uncertainty in Decisions

Distinguishes risk from uncertainty and explains how each affects decision quality. Recognising the type of uncertainty guides the choice of decision method.

Lesson 1 • Dynamics of Group Problem Solving

Examines how group composition, roles, and norms affect collective problem-solving performance. Understanding group dynamics is prerequisite to facilitating them well.

Lesson 2 • Cross-Functional and Diverse Teams

Addresses the unique challenges and advantages of solving problems across functions and disciplines. Diversity of expertise expands the solution space when managed well.

Lesson 3 • Facilitation Skills for Problem Solving

Teaches facilitation techniques that keep groups focused, inclusive, and productive. Skilled facilitation converts diverse perspectives into actionable outcomes.

Lesson 1 • Mapping and Modelling Complex Problems

Teaches causal loop diagrams and system maps to visualise complex problem structures. Visual models reveal hidden interdependencies and intervention opportunities.

Lesson 2 • Introduction to Systems Thinking

Explains feedback loops, emergence, and interdependence as core features of complex systems. Systems thinking reframes problems from isolated events to dynamic patterns.

Lesson 3 • Sustaining a Problem-Solving Culture

Examines how leaders embed problem-solving practices into team and organisational culture. Cultural embedding ensures skills persist beyond individual training.

Lesson 4 • Strategic Problem Solving at Scale

Integrates problem-solving skills with strategic thinking for organisation-wide challenges. Learners connect individual problem-solving actions to long-term organisational goals.