Chapter 10

Question 1

steps to problem-solving

Answer 1

1. identify problem
2. analyze problem
3. generate solution
4. evaluate solution
5. implement solution
6. monitor and adjust

Question 2

flexibility

Answer 2

the ability to adapt and modify strategies when faced with new information

Question 3

rigidity

Answer 3

a cognitive state where individuals adhere strictly to a single approach or perspective without considering alternative solutions

Question 4

impasse

Answer 4

a state or situation during problem-solving where individuals or groups encounter a barrier or deadlock, hindering the progress to finding a solution

i.e., writers facing writer’s block

Question 5

means-end analysis

Answer 5

evaluating difference between the current state and the goal state, then applying actions to reduce that difference

Question 6

problem-solving strategies

Answer 6

1. trial and error
2. algorithms
3. heuristics
4. insight
5. means-end analysis

Question 7

algorithms

Answer 7

step-by-step procedure or formula used to guarantee a solution to a problem

Question 8

heuristics

Answer 8

mental shortcut or rule of thumb that simplifies decision-making and problem-solving (i.e., divide and conquer)

Question 9

insight

Answer 9

sudden realization or understanding of a problem’s solution that comes after a period of cognitive impasse

Question 10

obstacles

Answer 10

1. mental set
2. functional fixedness
3. confirmation bias
4. overcoming confirmation bias

Question 11

mental set

Answer 11

tendency to approach problems in a particular way - may not be efficient for all problems

Question 12

functional fixedness

Answer 12

inability to see an object’s potential uses other than its usual function

Question 13

confirmation bias

Answer 13

preferring information that confirms pre-existing beliefs while ignoring contradictory evidence