Problem Solving

Multimedia also teaches problem solving skills using a simulation environment. Barron and Orwig suggest that programs offering procedural simulations teach a "sequence of actions or series of steps needed to accomplish a task." When thinking about simulation exercises, one sees them as related more to psychomotor or physical skills. However, some procedural simulations focus on critical thinking skills. For example, a cognitive simulation might enable the learner to practice medical diagnostics in an emergency room situation. The simulation would begin by describing some of the medical complaints of the patient, and the learner would respond by requesting specific actions and tests that would help identify the problem. (Barron and Orwig 162).