Problem Formulation within Open-ended Problems: Looking through the Structure-Behavior-Function (SBF) and Novice-Expert (NE) Frameworks

Problem formulation is integral to successful problem solving. To introduce problem formulation in first-year engineering classrooms, we utilize model-eliciting-activities (MEAs) – a client-driven engineering problems which guide students individually through problem formulation by asking three questions: Q1) “Who is the client?”, Q2) “In one or two sentences, what does the client need?, and Q3)”Describe at least two issues that need to be considered when developing a solution for the client.” The structure-behavior-function and novice-expert frameworks were used to analyse student responses before and after formal instruction on problem formulation was introduced. Student responses showed improvement with formal instruction.