problem solving Flashcards
What is the definition of a ‘problem’ in problem-solving?
A problem exists when someone lacks the relevant knowledge, ability, or will to produce a sensible solution immediately.
What is the main focus of problem-solving in psychology?
Problem-solving involves conscious and controlled processes and does not exclusively rely on automatic processes, although they are involved.
What are well-defined problems?
Well-defined problems have all aspects clearly specified, such as chess problems, where the goal and rules are well established.
What are ill-defined problems?
Ill-defined problems are underspecified, with no clear strategy, and are often complex, such as how to win a war.
What is the difference between knowledge-rich and knowledge-lean problems?
Knowledge-rich problems, like chess, require specialized knowledge, while knowledge-lean problems, like finding a parking space, do not require extensive prior knowledge.
What are the two types of thinking in problem-solving?
Reproductive thinking involves using previous experiences to solve problems incrementally, while productive thinking involves insight and novel restructuring of a problem (e.g., a ‘eureka’ moment).
What is insight in problem-solving?
Insight is the sudden realization or understanding of a problem solution that reorganizes the mental representation of the problem.
What is the Gestalt approach to problem-solving?
The Gestalt approach emphasizes holistic understanding and the idea that problem-solving involves reorganizing the problem representation, often requiring insight.
What is functional fixedness?
Functional fixedness is when individuals mistakenly assume that objects have only a limited number of uses, which can block problem-solving.
What is a heuristic in problem-solving?
A heuristic is a cognitive shortcut or strategy used to make decision-making and problem-solving quicker and easier, such as hill climbing or means to an end.
What is hill climbing in problem-solving?
Hill climbing is a heuristic where you choose the path that seems most directly towards the goal, but this may not always be the best approach.
What is the means-ends analysis in problem-solving?
Means-ends analysis involves identifying the difference between the current state and the goal state, setting sub-goals to bridge that gap, and choosing mental operators to achieve these sub-goals.
What is analogical problem-solving?
Analogical problem-solving involves using analogies from past experiences to solve new problems, by identifying similar relationships between different problems.
What is the role of expertise in problem-solving?
Expertise allows individuals to solve problems more efficiently by leveraging years of practice and domain-specific knowledge, often through template-based memory strategies.
What is deliberate practice?
Deliberate practice refers to focused, structured practice aimed at improving performance in a given area, which includes receiving feedback, repeating tasks, and correcting mistakes.
What is the concept of long-term working memory in experts?
Long-term working memory allows experts to store and retrieve information more effectively, keeping it readily accessible during complex problem-solving.
