Problem
In November 1879 Edison filed a patent for a carbon filament lightbulb. He made approximately 1000 attempts. When asked about the ~1000 failures, legend has it that he responded," I have not failed. I've just found 1,000 ways that won't work." - Thomas A. Edison But why did he try so many times? What was the problem he was attempting to solve? Would you persevere through so many attempts to solve a problem?
Solve a Problem
Have you ever solved a problem? Where did the problem come from? Where did you first get the idea you needed to solve the problem? Where did you first look to find the solution? In this activity, brainstorm problems. Describe a problem that you would like to solve. It can be a health problem that science and technology might be able to solve. Then solve it.
a) Define the problem or issue?
b) How does the problem or issue affect you or others?
c) What steps would you take to resolve the problem or issue?
d) Share your solution. Do you need help brainstorming activities to get started?