Mapping educators’ insights of student problem-solving difficulties while implementing video-assisted self-regulated learning training in classrooms

Developing self-regulated learning (SRL) skills among young adolescents is crucial for lifelong learning, and teachers play a vital role in fostering these skills. Problem-solving is a key SRL skill; however, both learners and teachers encounter challenges during the problem-solving process and in evaluating its incorporated strategies. To tackle these challenges, this study examined students’ problem-solving difficulties using a generic video-assisted SRL training programme, based on teachers’ reports, and analysed these challenges across STEM and non-STEM domains. This study focusses on identifying and classifying the difficulties of 241 students within the problem-solving framework, as reported by teachers across various disciplines and grades (6–11). The analysis revealed that the most significant difficulties arose during the problem identification, followed by time planning and management, problem exploration, solution development and solution evaluation. Specifically, STEM teachers reported relatively fewer difficulties in problem exploration than in other steps, while non-STEM teachers reported fewer challenges in presenting and communicating solutions to peers. A dedicated map named the problem-solving sort out setbacks (PS-SOS) map was created to pinpoint challenges within the problem-solving process. The application of this mapping technique can further support the development of technology-based feedback systems, including digital assistants, which offer valuable assistance to students.