Resolving Mysteries: A Guide to Creative Problem Solving. Instructional Strategies Series No. 17.

This booklet describes a process for creative classroom problem solving that can be adapted to many types of problems. The booklet's five sections correspond to five phases of the problem solving process. Each section begins with a description of the phase and then provides suggestions for using that phase in the classroom. The sections conclude with case studies that illustrate the way a basic problem-solving process can be modified to suit a number of different types of situations. "Your Turn" boxes throughout the booklet will allow the reader to resolve a problem in his or her own life. The five sections address: (1) recognizing that an unresolved situation exists as a first stage of problem solving; (2) identifying the problem; (3) finding solutions including tools for generating ideas, suggestions for when the process gets stuck, and problem solving with students; (4) choosing from among alternatives including identifying criteria, decision making, adapting criteria, and problem solving with students; and (5) taking action such as looking at the results of the action and working with students in this phase. (Contains 20 references.) (JB)