Global Issues Problem Solving

GLOBAL ISSUES PROBLEM SOLVING

GIPS is a team or individual activity in which participants research a series of global topics and learn a six-step creative problem solving process. Participants apply their knowledge and the problem solving process to address an imagined situation set in the future, called a “Future Scene”. From there, they complete a “booklet” (paper or virtual) addressing, critically analysing and solving a major issue in the Future Scene. Check key dates for submission.

Why Global Issues Problem Solving?

Does FPS have to be done in the classroom?

FPS can be successfully implemented in a variety of ways - as an extra-curricular program delivered outside school hours, or embedded in school curriculum from P-12, and everything in between. However you choose to run the Future Problem Solving Program, the development of these skills will correlate directly with the expectations and requirements of the National Curriculum.

How many students can participate and how do they compete?

Students can participate in Global Issues Problem Solving as individuals or in teams of up to 4 students, from years 5/6 (junior division), 7-9 (middle division), and 10-12 (senior division).

In a year-long program, students work through each practice problem, conducting in depth research into each topic, and practice using the six-step model. They prepare and submit a booklet for evaluation, and our team at FPS independently reviews each booklet and providing constructive and detailed feedback.

Based on their performance in the third Practice Problem (Qualifying Problem), the top 10 - 15% of Junior, Middle and Senior participants qualify to participate in the National Finals, which are held in October each year. The champion and second-placed teams from this National Final are invited to represent Australia at the International FPS Final held in the USA in the following June.

For the cost of a single individual or team registration, teachers can gain access to all the program materials and can teach the program to as many students as they wish. (However, booklets can be evaluated only if a team/individual has been registered.) Additional registrations can be added throughout the year.

While the Global Issues Problem Solving provides the opportunity for students to test their problem solving skills against other students across Australian and Internationally, it is more than a competition. It teaches real-life skills and techniques that are widely used across a range of industries - commercial, government and NGOs.

How can I get started with my students?

Attend coach training
Register a team or individual
Purchase recommended publications
Plan your FPS year

Characteristics of GIPS participants?

Futuristic Thinkers
Collaborative
Effective Problem Solvers
Analytical Researchers
Expert Innovators
Ethical Leaders
Diverse Thinkers
Global Citizens

GIPS skills aligned with Education Standards

Global Issues Problem Solving skills aligned with Education Standards

The purpose of Global Issues Problem Solving is to facilitate students’ ability to design and achieve positive futures using an authentic Creative Problem Solving model. In learning about futuristic topics and using the Creative Problem Solving Process, students are able to develop their thinking skills and enhance their creativity, and fulfil many educational standards as well. Please see the following chart for details.

GIPS Education Standards

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