The effect of problem solving based learning approach on cognitive flexibility

This study has comprehensively examined the effect of the problem-solving-based learning approach on cognitive flexibility. The study has provided a comprehensive examination of the definition and measurement of cognitive flexibility and the effects of the problem-solving-based learning approach on this skill. The research used a quasi-experimental design to test the cause-effect relationship within the framework of the quantitative research method. The study group consists of 87 students from a secondary school in Balıkesir province. The study group of this research consists of students studying at the school where the researcher works. The participants were determined using the convenience sampling method because they had the qualifications to serve the purpose of the research and were accessible. The Cognitive Flexibility Scale, which has proven validity and reliability, was used in the data collection process. In order to analyze the differences between the scores obtained as a result of the pre-test and post-test applications, the distribution of the data was examined and a normality test was performed. According to the test results, dependent sample t-test, independent sample t-test were applied within the SPSS program. The findings of the research showed that the problem-solving-based learning approach has positive effects on cognitive flexibility. The findings obtained were found to be guiding for both practitioners and academicians, and it was determined that they contributed to the creation of strategies based on scientific data in the development of education-training processes.