Perrone M. S., Cardellini L.,

Education in our society is a complex process, and different stakeholders have high expectations towards the world of education. Teachers should be able to teach not only their subject but also to foster autonomous critical thinking, in order to enable students to play an active, and constructive role in the society. Teaching requires a lot of human and professional skills because among students we can have both those who have difficulties to learn, and gifted students. A university teaching method is presented that allows to achieve excellent results, both as student motivation, and as skill acquisition in problem solving. Students are required to solve both logic and chemical problems, easy and difficult, with the aim of not discourage anyone. The emphasis is placed on visible reasoning and students are asked to explain, illustrate, argue, and demonstrate the various steps in problem solving. Appropriate strategies that facilitate the acquisition of cognitive skills and problem solving are suggested. Particular attention is being given to help students with difficulties in the course. Many students are able to deliver original and creative solutions. They pass the exam with excellent grades even though the course requests are substantial.