chapter12 Flashcards
(14 cards)
What does solving “Maier’s two strings” problem represent?
It is a demonstration of functional fixedness (focusing on familiar functions or uses of an object)
solving the problem represents the idea that restructuring representation of how to achieve a problem leads to faster solutions.
Thinking that is open-ended, involving a large number of potential solutions. refers to a way of solving problems wherein a variety of possible solutions are proposed in an effort to find one that works. takes its name from the idea that a theoretically limitless number of sometimes even unrelated solutions can be generated in an effort to find the best one.
divergent thinking
relies on focusing on a finite number of solutions rather than proposing multiple solutions.
convergent thinking
described as a process that begins with generation o the problem and ends with implementation of the solution, with ideas happening in between
creative problem solving
Innovative thinking, novel ideas, new connections between existing ideas, divergent thinking are all examples of
creativity
the fact that people find it difficult to apply analogies in laboratory settings, but routinely use them in real-world setting is known as_____. –Participants in experiments focus on surface features
–People in the real world use structural features
analogical paradox
involves observing people to determine how they solve problems in real world situations. This technique’s advantage is that it captures thinking in naturalistic settings. A disadvantage is that it is time consuming and difficult to isolate and control the variables. (3
In vivo problem-solving technique
the process by which two problems are compared and similarities between them are determined.
Analogical encoding
where subjects are asked to say out loud what they are thinking while solving a problem. Do not describe what they are doing but instead verbalize new thoughts as they occur. One goal is to determine what information the person is attending to while solving a problem. reveals a shift in how people view elements of a problem
Think aloud protocol
the sudden realization of a problem’s solution
insight
What are the differences between how experts and novices solve problems?
Experts have a higher and faster success rate. Experts tend to have more information and knowledge about their field of study and this knowledge is organized differently. Example, experts sort problems based on structural features (general principles of physics.) When the problem isn’t in the experts field of expertise then they don’t perform as well.
They spend more time analyzing problem, No better than novices when the problem is outside their field, less likely to be open to new ways of solving
Type of fixation that works against solving a problem, focusing on familiar functions or uses of an object. Getting stuck
functional fixedness
A problem solving strategy that seeks to reduce the difference between the initial and goal states. This is achieved by creating subgoals, intermediate states that are closer to the goal.
means-end analysis
- A technique in which people compare two problems that illustrate a principle. This technique is designed to help people discover similar structural features of cases or problems.
- process by which 2 problems are compared and the similarities between them are determined and used to assist in solving other problems.
analogical encoding
