21st Century Skills & Problem Solving
21st-century skills are a set of abilities that students need to develop to succeed in the information age. There are 12 of these skills in total that are broken down into the 3 categories of Learning, Literacy and Life Skills. These skills have always been required in working life, and, now more than ever in this information age.
This week we are focusing on the skill, of problem-solving. Problem-solving is the act of defining a problem; determining the cause of the problem; identifying, prioritizing, and selecting alternatives for a solution; and implementing a solution.
How to Teach Kids Problem Solving Skills
Kids face a variety of problems every day, ranging from academic difficulties to problems in extracurricular activities. However, sometimes it can be hard to associate themselves with problem-solving as it may often be seen as something the adults do. If a child or even some adults have not encountered a problem before they may be inclined to say 'I don't know and leave it at that. Encouraging children to say 'I don't know, but I am going to figure it out is an extremely valuable exercise. Problem-solving skills can help students in a variety of ways such as becoming more independent, making effective decisions, coping with challenges in everyday life or enhancing other skills like cooperation, critical thinking, and collaboration.
Here are some ways you can encourage your students to become more confident in problem-solving.
Reading
When reading students come across multiple problems, such as trying to pronounce an unfamiliar word or imagining unfamiliar scenarios. When we read, we can become invested in a character’s life and these characters encounter and solve problems all the time. So, when they come across a problem, ask them how their favourite character would have solved it. Encourage them to come up with a variety of solutions and discuss the possible outcomes of each.
Ask open-ended questions
Asking simple but open-ended questions is another excellent way to encourage problem-solving. There doesn’t have to be a right answer but expecting more than just a simple yes or no answer will encourage their brains to think more. An example of this type of question is ‘What did you learn?’.
Brainstorming
Using brainstorming activities is another great way to teach problem-solving. Giving your class activities like a debate and allowing them in groups to come up with ways to argue their motion will encourage them to think outside the box and listen and learn from one another.
The Benefits of being a good Problem Solver
Problem solving is the source of all new inventions and social evolution. It is the basis for continuous improvement, communication, and learning. Being able to think well under pressure and react appropriately in situations where you might be unfamiliar or uncomfortable is essential. It’s also essential for us to teach this to students.
The information age ensures that innovation is a key factor to success. It’s becoming more and more popular to work for yourself and even for those that don't, the pandemic has taught us so much about being flexible by working and learning online. The temporary uncomfortable feeling of being faced with a problem, in the long run, enables us to exert control over our situation.
The Magical Leaders
Zeeko’s Magical Leaders programme is a peer-led programme that helps children develop 21st century and transversal skills. The programme is engaging, fun, and interactive! The Magical Leaders programme is fully developed, with detailed lesson plans and instruction manuals included.
Funded by Enterprise Ireland, the programme is currently free to schools in Ireland. For more information visit our website or get in touch with the Zeeko Team today.
Teachers can sign up for our Monthly Teachers Newsletter here. Don't forget to sign up for our Parents Blog List here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does problem solving mean in a classroom context?
Problem solving in the classroom involves helping students identify challenges, think through possible solutions, and make decisions independently. It encourages students to move beyond saying “I don’t know” and instead ask, “How can I figure this out?”
Why is problem solving considered a key 21st-century skill?
Problem solving is one of the core 21st-century skills because it supports critical thinking, decision-making, adaptability, and resilience. These skills are essential for success in modern education, the workplace, and everyday life.
How can teachers introduce problem solving to younger students?
When learning how to teach your class problem solving, start with relatable situations. Use stories, classroom scenarios, or everyday challenges to show students that problem solving isn’t just for adults—it’s something they already do every day.
How does reading help develop problem-solving skills?
Reading exposes students to characters who face and overcome challenges. Teachers can ask students how a character solved a problem, or how they might solve it differently, encouraging multiple solutions and deeper thinking.
What role do open-ended questions play in problem solving?
Open-ended questions encourage students to think critically rather than look for one “correct” answer. Questions like “What did you learn?” or “What could you try next?” help students reflect, explore ideas, and build confidence in their reasoning.
How does brainstorming support problem solving in the classroom?
Brainstorming allows students to generate multiple solutions, listen to different viewpoints, and collaborate with peers. Group discussions, debates, and creative challenges help students think outside the box and learn from one another.
What are the benefits of teaching problem solving early?
Teaching problem solving early helps students become more independent, confident, and adaptable. It also strengthens other important skills such as communication, teamwork, and critical thinking.
How does problem solving prepare students for the future?
The information age demands flexibility and innovation. Learning how to teach your class problem solving equips students with the ability to handle unfamiliar situations, adapt to change, and thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
How can teachers encourage students who are afraid of getting the wrong answer?
Teachers can create a safe environment where mistakes are viewed as part of learning. Encouraging students to say “I don’t know yet” helps reduce fear and builds a growth mindset around problem solving.
What is Zeeko’s Magical Leaders programme?
Zeeko’s Magical Leaders programme is a peer-led initiative designed to help children develop 21st-century and transversal skills, including problem solving, leadership, and collaboration, through fun and engaging lessons.
Is the Magical Leaders programme suitable for Irish schools?
Yes. The Magical Leaders programme is fully developed, includes detailed lesson plans, and is currently free to schools in Ireland as it is funded by Enterprise Ireland.
How can teachers access more resources on teaching problem solving?
Teachers can visit the Zeeko website for programme details, sign up for the Monthly Teachers Newsletter, or join the Parents Blog List to stay informed about resources that support problem solving and other essential skills.
Explore Zeeko’s Home Page to discover our mission on the About Us Page, innovative Phone Blocking System, and engaging Phoenix Quest 10 programme. We provide Internet Safety Seminars, the Zeeko Report Card, and the Magical Leaders Choose Country initiative, alongside insights from our Digital Trend Report. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for updates.