The purpose of any algorithm is to help one reach the mastery level when it is no longer necessary. This is when we can speak about competence being developed and the initial problem gone (resolved). The learner has acquired what has been learned and is ready for a new competence cycle with new problems. This brings us to the two important outcomes of this stage: the need for the algorithm gone and a new problem recognised.

By the end of Stage 4, the learner is able to do the following:

• make a choice in any problematic situation that falls under the definition of the problem s/he has been working upon
• compare own algorithm for dealing with the problem with those developed by peers and optimise the algorithm if necessary
• collect the data when the algorithm does not seem to work and define a possible new problem