Topic 2.2 - Thinking, Problem Solving, Judgements, and Decision-Making

Cognition

All mental activities associated with thinking, knowing, remembering, and communicating

Concept

• Type of cognition

Mental groupings of similar objects, events, ideas, or people

Prototype

• type of cognition

A mental image or best example of a category

Schemas

Mental molds into which we pour our experiences, helping our brains organize and interpret information

• built by maturing brains

Assimilate

Process of making new information fit within an already existing schema

Accommodation

Modifying schemas to incorporate new information/experiences

Algorithm

Type of problem solving using a methodical, logical rule or step-by-step procedure that guarantees solving a particular problem

• sure answer but slow process

Heuristic

Type of problem solving using a simple thinking strategy that often allows us to make judgements and solve problems efficiently

• faster process but may miss answer

Representative Heuristic

Estimating the likelihood of events in terms of how well they seem to represent prototypes

Availability Heuristic

Estimating the likelihood of events based on their availability in memory

Mental Set

Our tendency to approach a problem in a similar way to what has worked for us previously

• factor influencing decision-making

Priming

Activation, often unconsciously, of certain associations, this predisposing your perception, memory, or response

• factor influencing decision-making

Framing

The way an issue/statement/question is posed

• factor influencing decision-making

Gambler’s Fallacy

A cognitive bias that occurs when someone believes that the probability of an event changes after a series of outcomes

• hinders good decision-making

Sunk-cost Fallacy

Our tendency to continue with an endeavor we’ve invested money, effort, or time into—even if the current costs outweigh the benefits

• hinders good decision-making

Creativity

Ability to produce new and valuable ideas

Convergent Thinking

A phase of creativity in which the available problem solutions are narrowed to determine the best solution

Divergent Thinking

A phase of creativity in which the number of possible problem solutions are expanded