CHIATECH JOURNAL · Registered Version of Record

The Given–Unknown–Equation–Substitute–Solve (GUESS) Principle for Quantitative STEM Problem Solving: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation Across Four Undergraduate Disciplines

1. Shiaondo Kenneth Chia
   CHIATECH Solutions and Resources Ltd, Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Students often possess isolated formulas yet struggle to represent quantitative problems, select appropriate equations and transfer a workable solution routine across STEM disciplines. Objective: This study evaluated the Given–Unknown–Equation–Substitute–Solve (GUESS) principle as a five-step scaffold for well-structured calculation problems. Methods: A sequential explanatory mixed-methods design was reported across General Chemistry I (n=78), Calculus I (n=65), Engineering Mechanics (n=42) and

Keywords: GUESS principle; STEM education; quantitative problem solving; metacognition; cognitive load; worked examples; transfer; University of Abuja

Licence: Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

Published by CHIA TECH SOLUTIONS AND RESOURCES LIMITED. ISSN assignment remains pending.