Problem-solving Flashcards
Broad description of problem-solving
Wide range of activities that count as problem-solving e.g. Running a 4 min mile, communication
Narrow definition of problem-solving
Several steps to reach conscious goal
Eynsenck and Keane (2010) definition of problem solving
1.Purposeful 2. cognitive and 3. lack information for solution
Two types of problems
Insight problems and Non-insight problems
Representational Change Theory
Problem solving- changing representation. 3 ways 1. Elaboration 2. Constraint relaxation 3. Re-encoding
Research examples of representational change theory
Mutilated draft board problem, matchstick problem and nine dot problem
What did the mutilated draft board problem show
Participants thought aloud whilst solving the problem (re encoding)
What did the matchstick problem show
Ptps fixated on values then operators- constrain relaxation
What does the nine dot problem show
Elaboration- without cue 31%, with cue 53%
What is the General Problem solver
Problem solving involves a range of different states between initial stage and goal state e.g. Hobbits and Orcs problem
What did Hobbits and Orcs problem show
Means-ends analysis and hill-climbing: get all 6 to one side of river w/o hobbits being outnumbered by orcs
Transfer theory e.g attach candle to wall without it dripping
Does previous experience of related problems affect the solution of a current problem?
Negative transfer
Functional fixedness: will think box is for holding tacks not candles
Positive transfer
Analogical problem solving- use of similarities between current and previous problems (William James)
Research examples of transfer
Duncker (1945) destroy tumour with rays and not destroying healthy tissue. Analogy helped
