Academic Performance and Student Wellbeing

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Questions and Answers

What is the core issue identified by the school regarding academic performance?

The school curriculum is outdated.

There is insufficient homework assigned.

Grades are declining and classroom disruptions are increasing. (correct)

Students are experiencing higher levels of stress.

What method did the school use to gather information about the students?

Only teacher assessments.

Parent interviews exclusively.

Student surveys and teacher feedback. (correct)

External tutoring reports.

What recent changes contributed to the students' feeling of being overwhelmed?

Introduction of a new curriculum and increased homework. (correct)

Limiting extracurricular activities.

Reduction in the number of classes.

Hiring more teachers to reduce class sizes.

What issue does the data collection reveal about students' workload?

Students are having difficulty balancing their workload. Signup and view all the answers

What impact has the increased classroom disruptions had on the learning environment?

Negatively affects engagement and achievement. Signup and view all the answers

What do teachers report about students' interactions in class?

Many students are struggling with their coursework. Signup and view all the answers

What was a consequence of implementing more rigorous testing standards?

There was a decrease in overall student engagement. Signup and view all the answers

How did the school administration respond to the decline in academic performance?

By striving to identify the underlying causes of the decline. Signup and view all the answers

What has contributed to the decline in academic performance among students?

Increased academic workload Signup and view all the answers

What core problem was identified regarding the new curriculum?

Students felt overwhelmed by the demands of the new curriculum. Signup and view all the answers

Which intervention was decided upon to address the academic decline?

Reviewing and adjusting the new curriculum Signup and view all the answers

What type of additional support is provided to help students manage stress?

Tutoring sessions and counseling services Signup and view all the answers

What evidence indicated a decline in student engagement?

Lower grades and diminished engagement Signup and view all the answers

What is the overall goal of the school's administration after identifying the issues?

To improve overall student performance and well-being Signup and view all the answers

How did the curriculum changes affect students' academic performance?

Students reported feeling overwhelmed by the new challenges. Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the signs of decline in academic performance?

Lower grades across subjects Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of problem analysis in computing?

To develop accurate and efficient solutions Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the first step in the problem analysis process?

Understanding the problem Signup and view all the answers

Breaking down a problem into smaller parts is beneficial for which reason?

It makes each part easier to solve Signup and view all the answers

The 5 Whys technique is primarily used for what purpose?

To analyze root causes Signup and view all the answers

Identifying the core problem helps in distinguishing it from what?

Symptoms of the issue Signup and view all the answers

Which skill is foundational and critical for designing effective solutions?

Problem analysis Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the objectives of problem analysis?

Developing a comprehensive understanding of the problem Signup and view all the answers

What does stakeholder analysis and mapping help to identify?

Key players affected by the problem Signup and view all the answers

What is essential for ensuring that solutions developed are relevant to a problem's specific circumstances?

Analyzing the context Signup and view all the answers

Which tool helps break down a problem into its fundamental parts?

Fishbone Diagram Signup and view all the answers

Why is data collection emphasized in problem analysis?

To ensure decisions are made based on comprehensive information Signup and view all the answers

What does stakeholder mapping provide?

Visual representation of stakeholder influence and interest Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a component of contextual analysis?

Identifying Stakeholder Preferences Signup and view all the answers

Which analytical tool specifically targets determining the root cause of a problem?

5 Whys Signup and view all the answers

How does understanding the problem environment contribute to solving issues?

By clarifying the context in which the problem exists Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about stakeholder analysis is correct?

It requires a visual representation of interests and influences. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of modularization?

To enhance system design and maintainability Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a key difference between decomposition and modularization?

Decomposition simplifies complexity while modularization improves structure and reusability Signup and view all the answers

What is one major benefit of decomposing a system?

It allows for more efficient problem-solving Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a common challenge in problem decomposition?

Creating a user interface Signup and view all the answers

What strategy can help overcome challenges in decomposition?

Using decomposition tools effectively Signup and view all the answers

How do visualization tools assist in the decomposition process?

They clarify and effectively demonstrate component relationships Signup and view all the answers

In the context of the calculator application, which module focuses on user input?

Input handling module Signup and view all the answers

What is the overall effect of modularizing the system design?

It simplifies development and allows for easier updates Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of decomposition in problem-solving?

To break down complex problems into manageable parts Signup and view all the answers

Which approach to decomposition starts by breaking down the problem from a broad perspective?

Top-Down Approach Signup and view all the answers

How does decomposition help in identifying the root cause of issues?

By simplifying complex problems into more manageable parts Signup and view all the answers

What advantage does decomposition provide in terms of managing the problem-solving process?

Organizes the problem-solving process effectively Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of decomposition allows for focused attention on individual problem components?

Dividing the problem into smaller, solvable parts Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of failing to break down a complex problem?

Difficulty in finding a comprehensive solution Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the Bottom-Up Approach in decomposition?

It begins with the simplest parts and builds to the complex Signup and view all the answers

What role does structured approach play in the context of decomposition?

Ensures each part of the problem is addressed appropriately Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

PRL1013 Problem Solving in Computing - LU2: Analyzing the Problem

Course title: PRL1013 PROBLEM SOLVING IN COMPUTING
Learning unit: LU2: Analyzing the Problem
Instructors: Michelle Anak George, Eaqerzilla Phang, Dr Sinarwati Binti Mohamad Suhaili

Agenda

Understand Your Problem
Breaking Problem down to Small Parts
Define problem domain
Measuring end goals

Learning Outcomes

Understand the importance of problem analysis and how it helps in creating effective solutions in computing.
Identify and clearly define problems, knowing the difference between symptoms and the real issues.
Break down big problems into smaller, manageable parts using easy-to-follow steps.
Use problem-solving tools (e.g., 5 Whys, root cause analysis) to analyze issues.
Consider different perspectives to ensure the solutions are comprehensive and relevant.

Flowchart for Problem Analysis Process

1) Importance & Objectives of Problem Analysis: Understanding the critical skill and objectives in problem analysis.
2) Understanding the Problem: Understanding the problem core elements, its causes, and potential impacts.
3) Identifying the Core Problem: Identifying the actual problem from its symptoms.
4) Contextual Analysis: Understanding the context in which the problem exists.
5) Tools for Understanding Problems: Utilizing analytical tools to systematically analyze the problem. (e.g. 5 Whys, Root Cause Analysis, Fishbone Diagram, Stakeholder Mapping)
6) Gathering Information: Gathering all relevant information, data, context and stakeholder perspectives.
7) Stakeholder Analysis & Mapping: Analyze stakeholders and their influence/interest.
8) Crafting the Problem Statement: Crafting a clear and concise problem statement.

Steps to Identifying the Core Problem

Identify Symptoms
Gather Information
Analyze Context
Focus on Core Problem
Identify Root Causes

Example of Core Problem Identification

Case Study: A real-world example demonstrating how proper core problem identification leads to more effective solutions.
Outcome Improvement: Reinforces the importance of accurate problem identification for better results

Understanding the Core Problem: A Simple Example

Scenario: A company's sales are dropping.
Initial Guess: Poor marketing.
Finding the Real Problem: Gather data (customer feedback, sales data, pricing, customer service quality), analyze the data, realize the core problem, and arrive at a solution.

4) Contextual Analysis

Problem Environment: Understanding the context where the problem exists is vital to ensure a solution fits the circumstances.
Solution Relevance: Solutions developed should be relevant to the problem's specific context.

Tools for Understanding Problems

Analytical Tools: Using various tools (e.g., 5 Whys, root cause analysis, fishbone diagrams) to systematically analyze and understand a problem.
Problem Clarity: Breaking down the problem into its core components to provide clarity and structure when addressing the issue.

6) Gathering Information

Data Collection: Gathering comprehensive and accurate data related to the problem forms the basis for future analysis and decision-making.
Inform Decisions: The collected data is crucial for making informed decisions ensuring solutions are well-founded in the collected data.

7) Stakeholder Analysis: Concept Visualization

Identify Needs: Understanding stakeholder needs.
Gather Views: Collecting opinions from stakeholders.
Stakeholder Mapping: Visual representation of stakeholder influence and interest.
Focus Efforts: Prioritizing efforts based on stakeholder impact.

7) Stakeholder Analysis

Identify Needs: Understanding needs and perspectives of all stakeholders involved is essential for a holistic problem understanding.
Incorporate Views: By incorporating stakeholder perspectives, analysis becomes more robust and solutions meet the needs of all involved parties.

Problem Statement

Crafting Statements: A well-crafted problem statement defines the problem clearly, concisely, and specifically, guiding further analysis and solution development.
Guiding Solutions: The statement should be detailed enough to guide the solution process, but flexible to adapt to new insights.

Example of a Good Problem Statement

Real-World Example: Demonstrating how a well-defined problem statement guides the problem-solving process.
Clarity and Specificity: The importance of concise and clear communication of the problem.

Case Study Example: Understanding Your Problem

Scenario: Declining academic performance in a high school.
Background: Teachers and students notice a decline in academic performance over several semesters.
Step 1: Identifying the Problem
Initial Observation: Academic performance across multiple subjects is dropping.
Core Issue: Students' grades are declining, with an increase in classroom disruptions and disengagement.
Step 2: Gathering Information
Data Collection: School gathers data on student grades, attendance, behavior, and teacher feedback.
Student Surveys: Surveys and interviews reveal students experience higher levels of stress and difficulty balancing their increased workload.
Step 3: Contextual Analysis
Recent Changes: New curriculum, more rigorous testing standards, and increased homework/extracurricular activities.
Student Feedback: Students feel overwhelmed by the increased workload, and teachers report new teaching methods might not sync with learning styles.
Step 4: Crafting your Problem Statement
The high school has observed a decline in academic performance.
Step 5: Identifying the Core Problem
Root Cause Analysis: Based on data, the decline is attributed to the new curriculum and increased workload.
Core Problem: Difficulty with the new curriculum and increased student stress lead to the issues observed.
Outcome: Review and adjust the curriculum, provide additional support (tutoring/counseling), aligned with student needs and learning styles.

Breaking Problem to Small Parts

Overview: Problem decomposition techniques like top-down and bottom-up approaches are discussed.

Why Decomposition Matters

Why Decomposition Matters: Breaking down complex problems into smaller, more manageable components simplifies the process of problem-solving and aids in identifying root issues.
Structured Approach: Decomposing the problem ensures each component is addressed effectively, leading to a comprehensive resolution.

Introduction to Problem Decomposition

What is Decomposition?: Breaking down the problem into smaller, manageable parts.
Advantages: Facilitates easier understanding and solving of complex problems, allowing focused attention on individual parts leading to more effective solutions.

Techniques for Problem Decomposition

Top-Down Approach: Starting with the overall problem and progressively breaking it down into constituent parts.
Bottom-Up Approach: Begins with smaller detailed components, subsequently integrating them into a complete solution.

Example of Top-Down Approach

Goal: Plan a successful office birthday party.
Break Down: Venue, food and drinks, entertainment.
Detail Requirements: Specific tasks for each component.
Execute: Implementing the planned tasks and activities

Example of Bottom-Up Approach

Tasks and Details: Individual tasks, like decoration, food ordering, creating a playlist
Combine Components: Assemble each task for a complete party plan.
Assemble the Event: Comprehensive plan to ensure all elements are prepared cohesively.
Review and Adjust: Review elements, and incorporate any changes to improve effectiveness further

Modularization

Breaking into Modules: Dividing a problem into independent modules for easier development and testing.
Benefits: Facilitates easy testing and maintenance through modular design.

Benefits of Modularization

Easier Testing: Simplifies and expedites testing by enabling isolated module testing.
Maintenance: Easier changes and modifications in modules without affecting the entire system.

Case Study on Decomposition: Simple Calculator

Decompose the System: Dividing a calculator application into modules (UI, arithmetic operations, handling input, displaying results). Develop Modules: Designing each module focusing on tasks like input processing, performing calculations, and displaying results. Integrate Components: Combining the developed modules into a complete functioning application. Benefits: Simplifying development, enhances maintainability, and facilitates updates or extensions to specific operations.

Decomposition

Definition: Breaking a complex system into smaller, manageable modules.
Purpose: Simplification of development and enhanced maintainability.
Example: A calculator app with modules for user interface, arithmetic, input handling, and display.
Benefits: Facilitates easier development, testing, and updates for the application.

Modularization Versus Decomposition

Decomposition: Breaks down complex problems into smaller entities for easier handling.
Modularization: Arranges the constituent parts into distinct, reusable modules to improve system design and maintainability.

Case Study on Modularization: Simple Calculator

Defines Arithmetic Modules: separating the calculator into modules of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
Develop Each Module: Implementing each operation as an independent function or module, optimizing for accuracy.
Integrate Modules: Combining the various modules to allow the calculator to execute the chosen function.
Simplify Maintenance: Allows for separate and convenient updates for specific parts.

Challenges in Problem Decomposition

Common Issues: Potential difficulties in decomposing problems (identifying the correct level of detail, managing dependencies).
Overcoming Challenges: Implementing strategies like iterative refinement, strong collaboration, and employing decomposition tools.

Tools for Decomposition

Visualization Tools: Using tools like flowcharts, diagrams to visualize the steps or components to visualize linkages and relationships between them within the process.
Application: Using these tools for efficient problem decomposition, improving understanding, and finding solutions to complex problems.

Practice Exercise on Decomposition

Exercise: Decomposing the functionality of a library management system into smaller, manageable modules.
Requirements: Defining the responsibilities of each module and demonstrating how they interact to form a cohesive system.

Conclusion

Thank you

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Description

This quiz explores the core issues affecting academic performance within a school environment. It addresses methods of data collection, recent changes contributing to student overwhelm, and the impact of classroom disruptions on learning. Additionally, it investigates teachers' observations regarding student interactions and the school's response to performance declines.