CHAPTER 1

Introduction
Education has a role to play in finding a solution to major problems facing the world. Education in
its broadest sense is the key to such a society, which will be supported and sustained not by the dominance
of its rulers but the character and wisdom of its citizens (Harris, 1986). Education can be defined as the
process by which individuals acquire knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes formal instruction, informal
learning experiences, and socialization. It encompasses the development of cognitive abilities, critical
thinking skills, social awareness, ethical values. The importance of education for society is multifaceted.
Firstly, education is a catalyst for economic development. A well-educated populace contributes to a nation's
workforce potential and productivity. It enhances innovation and technological advancement while also
fostering entrepreneurship and business acumen. Moreover, it promotes employability and upward mobility
for individuals, arguably enhancing the overall economic health of society.
Education is a process that begins at birth and continues until the end of life. Durkheim (1956) states that "education
is the influence exercised by adult generations on those that are not yet ready for social life" (p.71). In other words,
the primary objective of education is to help children develop intellectual skills and improve their physical
capabilities. Dewey (1897) believes that education functions properly when there is a relationship between the
individual and the environment, and that the purpose of education is to live for today, not to prepare students for
future living. Thus, firstly moral training should be offered and schools should serve "as a form of community".
Additionally, education is not a part of life and it should be regarded as "a continuing reconstruction of experience".
Teachers have a central role to play in improving educational outcomes. It is recognized that the quality of the
teaching workforce determines the quality of education and that it is a significant factor in keeping students in school
and in improving student educational outcomes.
Myanmar has commenced a process of significant change. Students of today need to acquire new knowledge, skills,
and dispositions to ensure their participation and success as individuals, as members of the community and as
citizens of Myanmar within a rapidly developing region.
As Myanmar raises the quality of the education system, through reforms to the basic education curriculum and
structure of schooling (Kindergarten to Grade 12), it needs teachers with the right values, skills and knowledge to be
effective practitioners (MOE, 2020).
In this section, importance of the study, objectives of the study, scope of the study and definition of
key terms are presented.
Problem-solving skills and problem-solving style are essential traits for in-service primary teachers.
These skills enable teachers to challenges, adapt to diverse student needs, navigate the evolving educational
landscape, and engage in continuous professional development. Several crucial factors contribute to the
significance of problem-solving skills and styles for educators.
Firstly, problem-solving skills allow primary teachers to effectively manage the myriad challenges
they encounter in their classrooms. From behavioral issues to academic difficulties, teachers must be

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equipped with the ability to identify underlying problems and develop strategies for resolution. By
employing critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and creativity, educators can create a positive learning
environment that supports student success.
Adapting teaching methods based on individual student needs is another vital factor related to
problem solving. In a diverse classroom setting with students of varying abilities and learning styles,
personalized instruction is crucial. Problem-solving skills enable educators to analyze each student's unique
requirements and tailor their approach accordingly through strategies such as differentiation or scaffolding
techniques.
Furthermore, problem-solving skills empower teachers to navigate the rapidly changing educational
landscape effectively. As new pedagogical approaches emerge and education systems evolve, it is crucial for
teachers to critically assess existing practices and adapt accordingly. By identifying potential challenges or
gaps in current instructional methods with a problem-solving mindset, educators can develop innovative
solutions aligned with best practices.
Additionally, a teacher's problem solving style influences how they collaborate with colleagues and
parents/guardians of students. Teachers who possess a collaborative problem-solving style are more likely to
seek input from others when faced with difficult situations, rather than trying to solve problems individually.
This approach generates diverse perspectives and promotes teamwork among educators working toward
common goals. The teacher's ability to effectively solve problems is also closely related to professional
development and continuous improvement. Teachers that can identify areas of weakness or challenge in their
teaching practice and take steps to address it through professional development opportunities or seeking
mentorship from experienced colleagues can enhance both their problem-solving skills and their
effectiveness as educators. Through this process of self-reflection and growth teachers can continuously
improve the quality of instruction they provide to their students resulting in better learning outcomes for all
learners.
In conclusion, the development of strong problem solving skill is essential for in-service primary
teachers as they enable teachers to deal with challenges in the classroom, tailor teaching methods to
individual student needs, navigate an ever-changing education all and scape, and engage in continuous
professional development. Problem-solving skills contribute vastly to greater student achievement, better
learning environments, and positive impact on the school community as a whole.
In conclusion Primary teachers must possess strong problem-solving skills as they are critical for
creating inclusive classrooms where every student feels supported and successful academically as well as
socio-emotionally The ability to adapt instruction based on individual needs is essential for ensuring
equitable access to education while fostering engagement among students Primary teachers who possess
effective problem-solving abilities also contribute positively to the overall school community by
collaborating with other educators parents guardians In addition these skills enable them to keep pace with
changes in education technology research findings by continuously refining their practices through self-
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reflection professional development they remain at the forefront of educational excellence Ultimately
investing in developing robust problem solving skills benefits both students themselves enabling them thrive
learn grow reach full potential.