What is the best description of a teacher encouraging students to solve problems in more than one way?

The best description of a teacher encouraging students to solve problems in more than one way is the development of cognitive flexibility. This approach emphasizes the importance of being able to think about problems from multiple perspectives and apply various strategies to reach a solution. Cognitive flexibility is a critical skill that helps students adapt their thinking and problem-solving techniques to new and changing situations.

By allowing students to explore multiple methods for solving problems, educators foster an environment of exploration and critical thinking. This not only enhances their understanding of the concepts but also builds resilience and adaptability, which are essential skills in both academic settings and real-life scenarios. Students learn that there can be several valid approaches to a problem, which deepens their comprehension and encourages creativity in their thinking.

The other options do not align with the concept of encouraging diverse problem-solving approaches. For instance, promoting rote memorization focuses on memorizing answers rather than understanding or engaging with the material critically. Fostering competitive behavior tends to emphasize winning rather than collaboration and exploration. Discouraging trial and error undermines the learning process, as experimentation is often crucial for acquiring deeper understanding and developing problem-solving skills. Thus, promoting cognitive flexibility stands out as the most appropriate description in this context.