Solving Personal Problems: Applying the Five-Step Model

In the first part (7.5 Points), you are required to use a personal example to fill in the following 5 steps.

Step 1 – The problem is clearly identified (1.5 Points). Suggestion: Use an example such as choosing a house or car, or a problem with a child, friend, coworker, etc. Choose a problem that is easy to define, and that has 2-3 reasonable alternatives.

Step 2 – The alternatives are presented (1.5 Points). Suggestion: Limit yourself to 2 or 3 alternatives. If there are more, choose the 3 best.

Step 3 – The advantages and disadvantages for each alternative are thoroughly examined (1.5 Points). Suggestion: Keep in mind that each advantage/disadvantage does not carry the same weight. For example, if you are deciding between two homes, one may have a chandelier that you don’t like, while the other does not have the third bedroom that you need. These are not equally important!

Step 4 – The solution is clearly described (1.5 Points). Suggestion: Simply identify your final choice, and explain briefly why it was the best alternative. Maybe you picked the house without a garage because it had a swimming pool!

Step 5 – An examination of how well the solution is working is present (1.5 Points). This can be tricky! If you have not implemented the solution, then explain how you will measure success.

In the second part (1.5 Points), you are required to answer the following questions in a brief essay: How did this process help you devise a solution? How can you use this process with future problems? Will this work for all problems you face (why or why not)?

The third part of your assignment is writing mechanics (1 Point). I will grade your essay based on the number of mistakes per 100 words (0.5 Point). I calculate the number of mistakes per 100 words, and then divide that number by 20 to establish the deduction. I do not deduct more than 0.5 points. For example, if you make 3.2 errors per 100 words, I will deduct 0.16 points (3.2/20).

I also grade citations and references (0.5 Point). You earn full credit if both are included and no credit if one or both are missing when quoted material is included. Use quote marks to clearly identify quoted text, and don’t paraphrase. I do not take any points away if you do not include references.

NOTE: If I detect large sections of copied or paraphrased text, I will file charges of Academic Dishonesty. This can result in an F grade for the class, plus a 6 month suspension, or expulsion. The price is way too high!