Assessment of problem solving skills in horticultural education: written simulations

Abstract

The aim of this thesis was to develop a method which could be used to formally assess problem solving skills in horticultural education. The nature of problems and the ways in which problems have been classified is reported. An analysis of the literature on how people solve problems led to the conclusion that there are two determining factors: 1. the nature of the problem 2. whether the person solving the problem is experienced or inexperienced in the subject area. Written simulations used for the assessment of problem solving skills in medical education are described and their appropriateness for use in horticultural education is discussed. Two exercises have been developed based on the 'Patient Management Problem' used in medical education. One exercise covers a labour management problem in horticulture and the second is based on the problem of purchasing a block of horticultural land. A study was conducted to show the construct validity of these exercises. Three groups of people with varying levels of experience in the subject areas completed the exercises. The proficiency scores they attained are analysed with reference to descriptive profiles of the groups of candidates. Results of this study lend support to the construct validity of the horticultural exercises. However the results also raise questions about the reliability of the scores, and emphasise the importance of the development of the scoring systems for such exercises. The usefulness of the exercises as learning experiences was highlighted during the course of the study.