Cog: Problem-Solving & Creativity

Problem

When there is an obstacle btwn a present state & goal

What do problems need?

Problem needs to be identified before they can be solved.

• Well-defined probs are easy to identify and solve

• Ill-defined probs are hard to identify and solve

Problem Representation

The way a problem is translated/represented in our mind

T or F: a problem may be represented to us in the same way

True.

• We may represent problems differently, resulting in different approaches to solve the problem

Problem Reconstructing

Process of changing a problems representation

• Problem can be solved by changing how it is represented

Insight

Sudden realization of a solution to a problem

Is this an example of a insight or non-insight problem?

Insight problem

• a non-insight problem is more numerical Ex. (1/5)x+10=25

Functional Fixedness

Tendency to focus on similar functions or uses of objects

What is the solution to the candle problem?

The solution requires thinking of the match box as a platform, not a container

When is it easier to overcome functional fixedness?

It is easier to overcome functional fixedness when tasks are presented outside the box

Mental Set

Preconceived notion about how to approach a problem

What do prior examples inhibit in a mental set?

Prior examples can establish a mental set that inhibits participants from using simpler solutions later on

Information Processing Approach

Problem solving is a search between the posing of a problem and its solution

Initial State

Conditions at the beginning of a problem

Intermediate State

Conditions after each step is made toward solving a problem

Goal State

Solution to the problem

Problem Space

All possible states that can occur when solving a problem

Operators

Actions that take the problem from 1 state to another

Means End Analysis

Reduce the differences btwn the initial and goals states by creating sub-goals

Analogical Problem Solving

Attempting to solve a problem using the solution to a similar problem

Ex. The Russian Marriage problem can be used to solve the mutilated checkerboard problem

Analogical Transfer

Experience solving 1 problem is transferred to another problem

Target Problem

Problem you’re trying to solve

Source Problem

Another problem that’s similar to & may illustrate a way to solve the target problem

What does analogical transfer require you to do?

Notice, map, and apply the analogy

Analogical Paradox

It can be difficult to apple analogues in the lab, but we routinely use analogies in real world settings

Expert

Someone who is knowledgeable or skilled in a particular field

T or F: Experts solve problem in their field more quickly & often than beginners

True

• Experts possess more knowledge about their field

• Experts organize their knowledge differently than novices

Creativity

The use of imagination or original ideas

• Creative problem-solving is a process

Divergent Thinking

Thinking that is open-minded & involves a large number of potential “solutions”

Creative Cognition

Technique to train ppl to think creatively

Daydreaming

Purposeful mind-wandering

Solitude

Avoiding distractions; giving the mind space and time to make new connections and find meaning

Mindfulness

Pay attention to what is happening in our mind and in environment