Types of Problems

It is important to be able to identify the different types of problems in order to choose the most appropriate solution. There are many different ways to classify problems. Problems can be classified based on their nature, duration, scope, and complexity. In this section, we will examine each of these classification systems in more detail.

Nature of Problems

Physical Problems

Physical problems involve tangible, real-world issues. These are often characterized by a clear cause and effect. For example, fixing a broken bicycle chain requires hands-on skills, such as using tools and physical dexterity.

Abstract Problems

These problems are conceptual in nature and do not involve tangible objects. They often require mental prowess and critical thinking. Understanding abstract art, for instance, may involve interpreting symbolic meanings and emotions conveyed through colors and shapes.

Social Problems

Social problems encompass challenges that arise within human interactions and society at large. Tackling poverty, for instance, involves understanding the economic, political, and social factors contributing to it and devising solutions that address these complex interplays.

Technical Problems

These problems are specific to certain fields or industries and often require specialized knowledge. Troubleshooting a computer network issue, for example, necessitates expertise in networking protocols, hardware configurations, and software applications.

📖 Read Lewis Harrison’s article on the 12 types of problems in the world for more insight.

❓ Can you list some of the other types of problems referenced in the article? Which one is most common in your community?

Answer 
Other types of problems referenced in the article: Historical, Mathematical, Business, Game, Theological, Systematic, Optimization, Decision, Forced, Reading and Kinetics problem.

Duration of Problems

Temporary Problems

Temporary problems are short-lived and typically resolve themselves without significant intervention. A common cold, for instance, usually runs its course in a few days with rest and hydration.

Chronic Problems

Chronic problems persist over an extended period, often requiring ongoing attention and management. Chronic illnesses, like diabetes, demand continuous monitoring, medication, and lifestyle adjustments.

Intermittent Problems

Intermittent problems come and go periodically, making them unpredictable. An example is a computer glitch that occurs sporadically or seasonal allergies that affect individuals during specific times of the year.

❓ Reflection: Can you identify examples of problems within your community that align with each of the problem categories mentioned earlier? Share one instance of a temporary problem, a chronic problem, and an intermittent problem you've observed in your community in the Padlet below.

Scope of Problems

Local Problems

These are issues that impact a specific area or community, often at a relatively small geographic scale. These problems are localized in nature and may not necessarily affect neighboring regions or communities.

Examples of Local Problems include;

  • Trash Collection in a Neighborhood: In a particular neighborhood, the irregularity of trash collection may be a local problem. It affects the residents directly in that area, and the solution may involve addressing local waste management issues.
  • Road Maintenance in a Town: If a town has pothole-ridden roads that need repair, this is a local problem. It impacts the town's residents and businesses and requires local authorities to address the issue.
  • School Overcrowding in a City District: Overcrowded classrooms within a specific school district are a local problem. It affects students, teachers, and parents within that district and may necessitate local solutions, such as building new schools or adjusting school boundaries.

❓ What other local problems can you think of? Add yours to the padlet below.

Regional Problems

These problems extend their impact beyond a single community, affecting a larger area or region. These issues typically cross administrative boundaries and involve coordination among multiple local entities.

Examples of Regional Problems;

  • Water Scarcity in a Watershed: Water scarcity in a river's watershed is a regional problem. It affects various communities and industries along the river's course, requiring coordinated efforts to manage water resources sustainably.
  • Air Pollution in a Metropolitan Area: Air pollution in a metropolitan region is a regional problem. It impacts the health and environment of people across multiple cities within the metropolitan area and requires collaborative actions to reduce pollution levels.
  • Traffic Congestion in a Metropolitan Area: Traffic congestion that spans several cities in a metropolitan area is a regional problem. It affects commuters and businesses across the region, necessitating regional transportation planning and solutions.

Global Problems

These are issues that transcend national and regional boundaries, affecting the entire world. These problems demand international cooperation and often have far-reaching consequences.

Examples of Global Problems:

  • Climate Change: Climate change is a global problem because it impacts countries and ecosystems worldwide. Greenhouse gas emissions, rising temperatures, and extreme weather events require collective efforts on a global scale to mitigate their effects.
  • Global Pandemics: The spread of infectious diseases, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, is a global problem. It affects countries across continents, prompting global responses, including vaccine development and international health guidelines.
  • Cybersecurity Threats: Cybersecurity threats, like large-scale cyber attacks, can have global repercussions. They target organizations and infrastructure across borders and necessitate international cooperation to protect digital systems and data.

📺 Watch this District 10TV video on ten important global issues.

📺 Watch the National Youth Council of Ireland explainer video on global issues for more information on other examples of global problems.

In the first video, ten major global challenges were highlighted. Can you recall them by filling in the missing challenge from the list below

  1. Climate change
  2. …
  3. Lack of primary education
  4. …
  5. Food Security
  6. …
  7. Substance abuse and mental health
  8. …
  9. Gender inequality
  10. …
Answer 
Missing challenges: Pollution, Unemployment, Health issues, Conflicts between nations and Water scarcity.

Complexity of Problems

Simple Problems

These problems have clear, well-defined solutions that are easy to grasp. Performing basic arithmetic calculations like addition or subtraction is a simple problem because you follow straightforward rules to reach an answer.

Complicated Problems

Complicated problems are problems that require multiple steps or components to reach a solution. They might involve several simple problems combined. For instance, creating a web application that allows users to register, log in, and post messages. This involves multiple interconnected components: front-end design, back-end server, user authentication, and database management, making it a complicated task.

Complex Problems

These problems are multifaceted and often lack clear-cut solutions due to their intricate nature. Addressing climate change involves understanding a multitude of interconnected factors, including environmental science, economics, politics, and societal behaviors. Finding effective solutions to such complex problems demands systemic thinking and collaboration among experts and stakeholders.

❓ Activity: Imagine you're describing the nature of complex problems in computer science to a younger sibling. How would you explain what makes a problem 'complex'? Share in the padlet below.