Strategies For Promoting Problem-Solving Skills Among Metalwork Students As Perceived By Lecturers Of Colleges Of Education In Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the strategies perceived by lecturers of colleges of education in Nigeria for promoting problem-solving skills among metalwork students. The research sample consisted of 80 purposively selected respondents from various Colleges of Education in North-Central, Nigeria. Data was collected through a self-designed questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. The questionnaire was validated by metalwork professionals and has a Cronbach reliability index of .91. The findings of the study revealed that flexibility and openness to new approaches; integrating critical thinking activities into the metalwork curriculum; providing students with opportunities to analyze alternatives; explore different sources of information and make informed decisions; sharing physical examples of metalwork projects and development of resilient and solution-oriented mindsets were identified as by lecturers/instructors as effective in promoting problem-solving skills among metalwork students. These findings informed curriculum development and instructional practices to enhance problem-solving abilities in metalwork education. It was recommended among others thus that the school authority and lecturers of metalwork should nurture students’ flexibility and openness to new approaches in metal fabrication that encourage students’ critical thinking and explore alternative solutions.