Week 9: Problem Solving Flashcards
Initial state
The situation as it exists, or is perceived to exist, at the moment
Goal state
The situation as the problem solver would like it to be: the end product
Possible routes
Strategies for getting from the initial state to the goal state
Well defined problem vs. ill defined problem
Well defined: initial and goal state clearly defined
Ill defined: the opposite. E.g. how do I make myself more attractive?
Ideal problem representation
Once we have realised we’re facing a problem, we should present the problem in a form that allows us to think of it in familiar terms, based on prior knowledge
Framing a problem: examples
Viewing the problem in specific ways, e.g. illicit drug use. Is this a law problem, a health problem, a social problem or a political problem?
Your framing of the problem impacts your perception of what the initial and goal states are
7 steps in the problem solving cycle
- Problem identification
- Problem definition
- Constructing a strategy
- Organising info
- Allocation of resources
- Monitoring problem solving
- Evaluating problem solving
Define problem identification
Knowing that there is a problem
Define the problem definition stage
Figuring out what the problem is
Define the strategy construction stage
Using our memory and experience to figure out how to fix it
Define info organisation
Trying to unpack the problem and how you can apply a strategy
Define allocation of resources
Both physical and mental resources to address the problem
Define monitoring problem solving
Applying one or two strategies then evaluating if the problem solving has been effective
Define evaluating problem solving
Was it effective? Has the problem been solved or does it still exist?
Definition of algorithm
A problem solving strategy in which all possible solutions are generated and tested and an acceptable solution is guaranteed
