Probleemküsimusi

Probleemküsimusi is the plural form of the Estonian term probleemküsimus, meaning a problem question. They are questions designed to identify, articulate and explore a problem or issue within a given domain, and they are often used to guide inquiry, discussion, and investigation in educational, research, or policy contexts. The concept emphasizes framing a problem clearly before seeking solutions or evidence.

Etymology and usage: The word combines probleem (problem) and küsimus (question), with the plural form kasutades as suuri märkus. In Estonian discourse, probleemküsimusi are commonly employed to structure learning activities, case analyses, and research planning by focusing attention on the core difficulties that need to be understood or addressed.

Characteristics: Probleemküsimusi are typically open-ended and ill-structured, inviting analysis, synthesis, and critical thinking rather than immediate, predefined answers. They aim to define a scope, stimulate inquiry, and guide data collection or discussion. They can function at different stages of a project, from problem framing to evaluation of potential solutions, and they often require considering multiple perspectives and evidence.

Applications: In problem-based learning, educators present a problem and students formulate and refine probleemküsimusi to direct their investigations. In research planning, solche questions help delimit the research problem and objectives. In policy analysis or organizational studies, probleemküsimusi help articulate issues, assess trade-offs, and compare possible interventions.

Examples (Estonian): "Millised on selle probleemi peamised tegurid ja nende vastastikmõju?" "Kuidas saaks mõõta lahenduse mõju erinevatele inimestele?" "Millised riskid kaasnevad võimalike lahendustega ja kuidas neid maandada?" See term is closely related to other inquiry prompts such as uuringuküsimused and dilemmas used to scaffold systematic inquiry.