A study examining the effects of a training program focused on problem-solving skills for young adults

Abstract

There is widespread recognition that 21st century skills are important for youth to develop in a fast-changing digital era. The current study examined the effectiveness of an 8-week out-of-school program targeted to develop youth's problem-solving skills. A quasi-experimental design with an experimental (n = 25; M-age = 23.54) and comparison group (n = 32; M-age = 25.63) and repeatedly measured outcomes was applied. Furthermore, outcomes were assessed by three different sources, namely self, direct observer, and rater. Results suggest that youth's problem-solving skills, particularly when measured by others, improved after program participation. However, using self-report measures, there was lack of evidence that problem-solving skills improved through program participation. Conceptual and practical implications with regards to the results are discussed.