Introducing Effective Problem Solving Culture in Higher Education Institutions in Nigeria: Methods and Tools

Abstract

This paper introduces the concept of effective unconventional problem solving culture that is uncommon to the culture practiced in the educational institutions.  The Six Thinking Hats, Devil’s Advocacy and Root Cause Analysis methods and the Fishbone (Cause and Effect) and Pareto Analytical tools other than the conventional research methods and tools used were identified and introduced. The concept of brainstorming in teams as problem solving data collection mechanism was also elaborately discussed and introduced. Hypothetical instances were cited as demonstration of the methods and tools application in problem. This paper attempts to recommend these methods and tools and many more in wide application in the industries to the higher educational communities in Nigeria where most of the methods and tools were originated. This is expedient following the fact that the education at all levels generally and specifically at higher education levels is fast assuming commercial status where accountability, competitiveness, value for money, all outputs and outcomes factors of modern day are drivers of business.

Keywords: Problem, Problem-solving, attitude, methods and tools