On the Nature of Problems

This paper is an attempt at clarifying the concept of "problem", and originates from a concern for improving the teaching of problem solving. The following categories are identified and employed in the analysis of several examples of problems and related notions: (a) the formulation of a problem, i.e. the definition of the task to be performed, (b) the context in which the problem is embedded, (c) the set of suitable solutions, (d) the methods of approach that could be employed in solving the problem. Commonalities as well as contrasts among specific examples are used to identify important elements of problems. The study suggests a possible classification of "types" of problems of educational interest, and draws some implications for the choice and use of problems in classroom instruction.