California Future Problem Solving

California Future Problem Solving Program (CAFPS) combines the rigorous intellectual challenge of creative problem solving with an interdisciplinary study of the future. The program is designed for 4th to 12th grade students and helps develop their abilities in research, critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork. The program teaches a proven framework for clear and structured analysis.

Students develop robust skills, including:

• Researching topics broadly and discerningly;
• Dissection and structuring of complex problems;
• Brainstorming creatively;
• Collaborative teamwork under time pressure;
 and
• Informed, transparent decision-making.

Students research topics in depth and explore their social, political, economic, and technological implications. Teams then brainstorm and explore the various challenges posed by each topic and complete the process by detailing and evaluating potential solutions. A teams analysis and solutions are reviewed by a panel of evaluators who provide suggestions for improvement in addition to an overall score. Students participate in two practice rounds to prepare for the competitive events that can advance them to our annual state bowl and annual international competitions.

CAFPS is the California affiliate for Future Problem Solving Program International, Inc. (FPSPI), founded by Dr. E. Paul Torrance in Florida in 1974.