Welcome

WA FPS helps provide opportunities for students to develop creative problem solving skills in a positive atmosphere

The Washington Future Problem Solving Program, a 501 (C) 3 not for profit organization, was one of the earlier affiliate programsin the 35 year existence of the Future Problem Solving Program International. As a chartered affiliate, the Washington Affiliate provides the infrastructure for young people (grades K-12) in Washington and other young people from mentored regions to participate in the program and training and material support for the coaches.

Teaching students how to think, not what to think

Future Problem Solving Program International (FPSPI) provides tools and strategies for students needing to face the challenges of today and the future. There are a variety of ways in which students can participate in the FPSPI program through the WA FPS Affiliate.

FPS Components

Team and Individual Global Issues Problem Solving - Under guidance of coach, participants use FPSPI six-step model to explore challenge and propose action plans to complex societal issues. A specific topic is presented, using a "future scene" as catalyst for generating and focusing ideas. Teams complete two practice problems and one qualifying problem throughout school year. Trained evaluators score student work and give feedback, including suggestions for improvement. Top scoring teams on qualifying problem are invited to State Bowl in April. Winner of each level at State advance to International Conference in June, along with 2000 students and coaches from throughout the world.

Scenario Writing - FPSPI Scenario is a 1500 word, short story where one possible future outcome is developed through character and plot. Each scenario must have recognizable relationship to one of this year's FPSPI topics. Individual participants may submit one scenario per academic year. 1st, 2nd, 3rd place winners are sent for further evaluation at the international level.

Team and Individual Community Problem Solving (CmPS) - CmPS teams and individuals apply problem solving
a Snohomish (WA) team
CmPS projectskills to a current problem in their local area. Using FPSPI six step problem-solving model, students implement an Action Plane as a part of their CmPS experience. Teams move from hypothetical issues to real world, authentic concerns. CmPS team can be composed of as few as one student or up to 50. Projects can span several years, if necessary. State winners are eligible to participate at International Conference the following year. This can be a significant Service Learning opportunity.

Action Based Problem Solving - This year-long, non-competitive component is designed for use in the regular classroom and introduces students to the skills of creative problem solving in a hands-on, non-threatening manner. Teams of four-six students are encouraged to work on two topics, one per semester. Three divisions are offered: Primary (grades K-3), Junior (grades 3-6) and Middle (grades 6-9).