Learning by problem-solving assisted of planning and retrieval of sample problems with solutions indexed by structured solution plan

The paper proposes to develop the ability of planning in learning by problem-solving, providing the learners with a repertoire of problem types as constructs of plans and their expansions into sub plans as well as sample problems with solutions indexed by hierarchical use of plans and sub plans for solving the problems. The learners can construct their plans on the system-supported planning environment and retrieve solutions of sample problems by way of the structured solution plan indices. The system critiques their plans and checks, through interaction with the learners, the interim results of executing any subproblems in the solution path. A prototype system was implemented and tested in order to assess the significance of providing such an environment in developing ability of planning. The pre-post test evaluation in steps strongly suggested importance of providing sample problems with plan indices in order for the learners to be confident of applicability of newly learned plans.