problem solving

• Three aspects to problem solving


  Representing a problem with relevant information (know what the problem is); Analyzing it; Effectively storing a solution (note the importance of generalization)
• Problem Solving Cycle


  1. Define the problem

  2. Analyze the problem

  3. Develop a solution

  4. Implement the solution

  5. Evaluate the solution
• Well-defined problems


  • Rely on different neural processes than ill-defined problems
• Problem space


  How a problem is represented, including the goal to be reached and the various ways of transforming the given situation into the solution. Includes all the steps involved in solving a problem, including the goal and subgoals.
• Well-defined algorithms


  • Trial and error; Means-end; Hill climbing; Brute force
• Analogical problem solving


  Recognizing commonalities between different problems and using the solution to one problem to help solve another similar one
• Surface and structural details


  • Analogical problem solving relies on recognizing both surface and structural similarities between problems
• Experts spend more time defining a problem and view a problem space from a more holistic lens, but expertise is limited to the domain of knowledge. There are no structural differences in the brain, but there are functional differences in how experts use their neural circuits.
• Einstellung effect


  When a familiar approach becomes counter-productive or a person falls into the rut of over-using a solution, leading to rigidity in problem-solving
• Functional fixedness


  A tendency to see an object as useful only for its usual purpose
• Functional fixedness


  • Classic 1945 experiment: Given a box of tacks, a candle, and a book of matches, the task is to find a way to mount the candle to the wall. Most people didn't think to use the box as a candle holder.
• If we don't know the uses of these objects (some children), we don't get functionally fixed!
• Familiarity or pre-utilization with objects leads to functional fixedness.
• Water jar problem


  • Demonstration of an Einstellung effect
• Insight problems


  Cannot be solved using a defined set of procedures (ill-defined) and emerges from an impasse in which a problem has to be restructured (requires creative thinking)
• Characteristics of insight problems: easiness, suddeness, positive, confidence
• Feeling of warmth, confidence and feeling of knowing


  Similar or different with regard to non-insight and insight problems
• Discovery and creativity can result from insight and analogical problem solving based on structural similarity.