Future Problem Solving was created to address a critical gap in education: the need to develop higher-order thinking and real-world problem-solving skills in young people. In 1974, our founder, Dr. E. Paul Torrance, helped catalyze a movement toward creative teaching and learning by developing a research-based 6-step problem-solving process that remains at the core of our work today.
Educators continue to face the challenge of building career readiness skills while meeting rigorous academic standards. Future Problem Solving bridges that gap with standards-aligned, skill-based programs that engage students in meaningful learning across classrooms, communities, and beyond. Students build broad knowledge, deepen understanding, and develop empathy as they apply complex problem-solving to real-world issues.
At a time of rapid change and increasing complexity, these skills are essential. Now, in the age of AI, it is more important than ever to teach students how to think, not what to think—so they can approach challenges with confidence, creativity, and purpose, and become a force for positive change.
Future Problem Solving delivers a distinctive, research-based approach built on its proven 6-step problem-solving model. Youth start with real-world issues they recognize, then extend their thinking into the future, where imagination is unconstrained, to develop solutions that go beyond today’s limitations.
Our Global Issues program uses “what if” future scenarios to frame complex, real-world challenges. Through our proprietary curriculum and methods, students research, analyze, and apply the 6-step process to produce thoughtful, actionable solutions. Along the way, they strengthen both divergent and convergent thinking and learn to navigate ambiguity with confidence.
Youth complete two practice problems and one qualifying problem. Those advancing to affiliate finals take on a fourth challenge for the opportunity to attend our World Finals. All five topics are released annually and reflect pressing global issues.
Rubric-based evaluations provide learner-focused, authentic assessment. Youth receive detailed feedback from trained evaluators on every submission, creating a consistent, step-by-step feedback loop that drives measurable growth in problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity while ensuring fairness and reliability in scoring.
With more than one million alumni worldwide, the long-term impact is clear. Independent studies further validate its effectiveness, showing gains in higher-order thinking skills that prepare students to succeed in school and beyond.
In 2024, our 50th year, Future Problem Solving accelerated its global growth with a comprehensive brand relaunch, enhanced technology platforms, refreshed curriculum, and new strategic partnerships. These efforts are expanding access, strengthening engagement, and connecting with more young people worldwide.
A key recent achievement is the launch of the World Solutions Challenge, an innovative, flexible entry point designed to broaden participation in our signature Global Issues program. Unlike traditional pathways, it requires no prior experience or affiliation. These bite-sized, on-demand challenges can be completed anytime or through virtual, asynchronous events, making participation more accessible. In 2025, the Rising Sea Levels challenge engaged students ages 10–14 from 20 regions around the world, introducing a new generation to Future Problem Solving. The next challenge will tackle Invasive Species.
Looking ahead, we are focused on scaling access and deepening impact. Our goal is to make our programs easier to implement across learning environments, both in and beyond the classroom. We plan to expand globally, reach more young people, and continue equipping them with the skills to think critically, act creatively, and lead as confident problem solvers and changemakers.
Future Problem Solving works in and beyond the classroom, in all the spaces and places youth learn. In addition to schools, participation options include community-based clubs, after-school enrichment, youth development programs, independent learning channels, and at home participation with a parent as coach/sponsor. Visit our website to find a local affiliate or contact us to explore.
