Problem-Solving: A Universal Skill for Everyday Challenges Course

Editorial Take

Problem-solving is one of the most transferable and essential skills in both personal and professional life. Arizona State University's course on Coursera, led by Dr. Brent Scholar, delivers a beginner-friendly introduction to structured thinking and decision-making. While not designed for experts, it fills a critical gap for learners who want to approach everyday challenges more intentionally.

Standout Strengths

• Universal Applicability: The course frames problem-solving as a life skill, not just a workplace tool. This makes it relevant whether you're organizing a team event or troubleshooting home electronics. Real-life scenarios keep the content grounded and relatable.
• Structured Frameworks: Learners are introduced to step-by-step methods for defining, analyzing, and resolving issues. These frameworks help break down overwhelming situations into manageable parts. The clarity reduces anxiety around decision-making.
• Beginner Accessibility: No technical background is needed. The course assumes no prior knowledge, making it ideal for high school students, career changers, or lifelong learners. Concepts are explained with simple language and visual aids.
• Free to Audit: The course is available at no cost, removing financial barriers. This is rare for structured university-led content and increases its reach. Learners can explore without commitment.
• Real-World Examples: Dr. Scholar uses everyday situations—like hanging pictures or choosing a lunch spot—to illustrate abstract concepts. These analogies make learning sticky and memorable. They also model how to apply techniques immediately.
• Clear Instruction: The instructor communicates with clarity and calm confidence. Videos are well-paced and concise. This helps maintain engagement, especially for learners new to online education.

Honest Limitations

• Limited Depth: The course stays at a foundational level. Advanced learners may find the material too basic. Those seeking rigorous analytical models or data-driven methods will need to look elsewhere.
• Minimal Interaction: There are few opportunities for peer discussion or collaborative problem-solving. The learning experience is mostly passive. This limits the development of communication and teamwork aspects of problem-solving.
• Light on Practice: While concepts are well-explained, applied exercises are limited. Learners must self-direct practice to fully internalize skills. More structured activities would enhance retention.
• Generalized Content: The broad approach sacrifices specialization. It doesn’t address domain-specific challenges in engineering, business, or healthcare. This keeps it accessible but less useful for niche applications.

How to Get the Most Out of It

• Study cadence: Dedicate 3–4 hours per week consistently. Spread sessions across the week to allow reflection. This reinforces learning and encourages real-time application.
• Parallel project: Apply each module to a current personal or work challenge. Use the frameworks to document your process. This turns theory into lived experience.
• Note-taking: Summarize each module’s key steps in your own words. Create a personal problem-solving checklist. This becomes a quick-reference tool.
• Community: Join the discussion forums even if participation isn’t graded. Share your examples and read others’. This exposes you to diverse perspectives and builds accountability.
• Practice: Revisit old decisions and re-analyze them using the course methods. Identify where a structured approach could have improved outcomes. This builds metacognitive skills.
• Consistency: Complete modules in order without skipping ahead. The course builds progressively. Staying on track ensures full understanding of the workflow.

Supplementary Resources

• Book: 'Thinking, Fast and Slow' by Daniel Kahneman complements the course by exploring cognitive biases. It deepens understanding of why we make flawed decisions and how to correct them.
• Tool: Use mind-mapping software like MindMeister or XMind to visualize problems. These tools support the course’s emphasis on diagramming and help organize complex thoughts.
• Follow-up: Enroll in ASU’s related courses on critical thinking or decision-making. These build on the same foundation and add depth. They are often available in the same specialization.
• Reference: Keep a journal of problems you solve using the course framework. Track what worked and what didn’t. Over time, this becomes a personalized playbook.

Common Pitfalls

• Pitfall: Treating the course as passive entertainment. Without active application, the techniques won’t stick. Engage with exercises and apply them daily to build habit.
• Pitfall: Expecting immediate mastery. Problem-solving is a skill developed over time. Revisit modules periodically as you encounter new challenges.
• Pitfall: Overlooking emotional aspects of problems. The course focuses on logic but doesn’t deeply address stress or bias. Pair it with emotional intelligence resources for a fuller picture.

Time & Money ROI

• Time: At 8 weeks with 2–3 hours per week, the time investment is manageable. Most learners can fit it into a busy schedule without burnout. The return is higher clarity in decisions.
• Cost-to-value: Free access makes this a high-value offering. Even if a certificate requires payment, the core content is available at no cost. This is exceptional for university-level instruction.
• Certificate: The credential may not carry industry weight but shows initiative. Best used as a supplement to a resume or LinkedIn profile, not a standalone qualification.
• Alternative: Free YouTube playlists or library books can teach similar concepts. But this course offers structure, credibility, and a guided path—making it more effective for disciplined learners.

Editorial Verdict

This course succeeds in its goal: making problem-solving approachable and actionable for everyday people. It doesn’t try to be everything—it focuses on foundational thinking, clear communication, and practical application. For learners overwhelmed by decisions or seeking a structured way to tackle challenges, this is a valuable starting point. The lack of advanced content is not a flaw but a design choice that keeps the door open for all.

We recommend this course to beginners, students, or professionals early in their careers. It’s especially useful for those transitioning into roles requiring independent thinking. While it won’t replace specialized training, it builds confidence and awareness. Paired with real-world practice, it delivers outsized value for its time and cost. Consider it a mental toolkit starter pack—simple, effective, and ready to use.