2.9.7 Problem solvers today – Leaders tomorrow!
The 21st century requires powerful and effective global leaders - and these leaders must possess effective problem solving skills. Gifted students do not automatically develop into leaders or problem solvers, rather students must be provided appropriate tools that lead to acquired behaviours needed for this enormous task/responsibility. The Partnership for 21st Century Learning identified the 4-C’s: Collaboration, Communication, Creativity, and Critical Thinking – all of which are addressed within Creative Problem Solving (CPS). Teachers must be well informed in CPS to provide the essential skills required to form future leaders who will make a positive difference globally.
Author(s):
April Dennis
april@fpspi.org
FPSPI, Inc.
United States
April Dennis has served as the Program Director of Future Problem Solving Program International (FPSPI) since 2012. With a background in advanced curriculum strategies and highly engaging learning techniques, April enjoys being part of a student-driven organization designed to promote students as leaders.
A graduate of the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education and the University of South Florida with a Masters in Gifted Education, April’s passion is providing challenging curriculum for 21st century students so they are equipped with problem solving and ethical leadership skills for the future.
Niranjan Casinader
niranjan.casinader@monash.edu
Future Problem Solving Program Australia
Australia
Dr Niranjan Casinader is Senior Lecturer in Education at Monash University, with a special focus on the cultural dimensions of education, especially relating to curriculum, pedagogy, globalisation, teacher capacity and the teaching of Humanities. One of Niranjan’s continuing interests is the integration of thinking skills into classroom curriculum, and he has published extensively on the connections between culture and the practice of thinking skills across national boundaries. Currently, he also serves as National Director of Future Problem Solving Program in Australia, and was on the International Board of Trustees from 2007-2015.
Nicola Desoe
nicky.desoe@fpsp.org.au
Future Problem Solving Program Australia
Australia
Ms Nicola Desoe has a Diploma of Teaching (Primary) from the Brisbane College of Advanced Education, a Bachelor of Education from the University of South Australia and a Certificate of Gifted Education from the University of New South Wales.
She has taught in rural, regional and urban Primary Classrooms for over 20 years, including 10 years as Co-ordinator of Gifted Programming. She has developed and taught gifted programs at four schools. Her particular area of interest is Future Problem Solving where she now serves as the Primary Programs Co-ordinator on the National Committee and on the International Topics Committee.