Students' Perception of Knowledge Activation on a Guided Collaborative Problem Solving Organizer

While problem solving may seem like an intuitive process as demonstrated by experts, there are steps in the process that are clearly identifiable and can be systematically applied. To understand a problem and to develop effective problem-solving skills, students must learn to identify learning issues and locate, evaluate, and apply resources relevant to those issues. The purpose of this study was to investigate the design and impact of an innovative learning and performance-support system to facilitate students' development of metacognition and problem solving skills. Detailed descriptions of the theoretical and design frameworks are provided and discussed. A field test including survey and group interviews was conducted to initially study the impact of this innovative design approach. Findings related to the design and how the system supports problem solving activities are discussed, and future research suggestions are offered.

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