Problem Solving/Decision Making

Question 1

Mental Set

Answer 1

The tendency to approach similar problems in the same way.

Question 2

Functional Fixedness

Answer 2

The inability to consider how to use an object in a nontraditional manner. i.e. duncker’s candle problem

Previous knowledge and biases impede seeing solutions to problems.

Question 3

Trial and Error

Answer 3

Various solutions are tried until one seems to work.

• Entering random numbers trying to guess password (123456 then 097543)

Question 4

Algorithms

Answer 4

A formula or procedure for solvinga certain type of problem. Can be mathematical or a set of instructions.

• Changing one number at a time when trying to type in password. (123456 then 223456 then 323456)

Question 5

Heuristics

Answer 5

Simplified principles used to make decisions; rules of thumb

• When guessing password, try important dates like your birthday (062696)

Question 6

Intuition

Answer 6

It just “feels” correct. Often developed from experience.

Question 7

Deductive Reasoning

Answer 7

Start with a fact, and use other facts and logical reasoning to prove the initial stated fact. i.e. math equation

Question 8

Inductive Reasoning

Answer 8

Look for a trend and create a theory via generalizations. Starts with specific instances and then draws conclusions from them. i.e. predicting future populations

Question 9

Availability heuristic

Answer 9

Using examples that are easily available in our memory.

• Are there more words in the English language that start with ‘K’ or have ‘K’ as their third letter?

Question 10

Representativeness heuristic

Answer 10

Matching prototypes. Used to make quick judgments.

Linda is 30, single, and studied philosophy. She spoke against nuclear weapons and discrimination. Is she a bank teller or a feminist bank teller?

Can lead us to conjuction fallacy.

Question 11

Overconfidence Bias

Answer 11

Being 100% positive you’re right in an argument until someone shows proof that you’re wrong.

Question 12

Belief perseverance

Answer 12

Ignoring disconfirming facts about your favorite political candidate.

Question 13

Confirmation bias

Answer 13

Seeking out information that confirms your belief.

• You only read stories that talk about how good your favorite candidate is

Question 14

Framing effects

Answer 14

A. ) Save 200 People

B. ) 1/3 chance to save 600; 2/3 chance to save 0

or

A. ) Let 400 die

B. ) 1/3 chance nobody dies; 2/3 chance 600 die

Question 15

Multiple intelligences

Answer 15

7 types: linguistic, logical-mathematical, musical, visual-spatial, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal

Question 16

IQ formula

Answer 16

mental age/chronological age x 100