Chapter 8

problem-solving cycle

1. Identifying the problem

2. Defining the problem

3. Developing strategies

4. Organizing information

5. Allocating resources

6. Monitoring progress

7. Evaluating the results

Well Structured Problems

have a clear path to a solution, with defined initial conditions and goals.

Isomorphic problems

problems with different surface features but similar underlying structures.

problem representation

involves organizing the problem's information in a way that makes the solution more apparent, often by visualizing the problem or breaking it into smaller, manageable parts.

Ill structured problems

lack clear solutions or pathways, requiring creative or insightful approaches.

Early Gestaltist Views

believed that problem solving was about restructuring one's perception of a problem to achieve a solution

The Neo Gestaltist View

focusing on how mental representations and cognitive restructuring influence insight.

Insight

occurs when a sudden realization or cognitive shift leads to the solution of a problem.

right hemisphere

Research shows that insight is associated with activity in the ( ) of the brain, particularly in areas involved in semantic processing and restructuring.

mental set

habitual strategy or framework for solving problems, which can become entrenched and hinder problem solving

Fixation

occurs when an individual is unable to see a problem from a new perspective, limiting the possibility of finding a novel solution.

Transfer

refers to applying knowledge or strategies from one problem to another.

Analogical reasoning

involves solving a problem by drawing parallels to a similar situation

Intentional transfer

involves actively seeking analogies that can be applied to the current problem.

Incubation

refers to taking a break from a problem, allowing the subconscious mind to continue working on it.

prefrontal cortex

heavily involved in planning and organizing problem solving efforts.

automatic processing

where routine tasks can be performed effortlessly and without conscious thought, freeing cognitive resources for more complex aspects of problem-solving.

Artificial intelligence (AI)

refers to the creation of machines that can simulate human thought processes.

Turing Test

proposed by Alan Turing, is a measure of a machine's ability to exhibit intelligent behavior.

Expert systems

form of AI designed to mimic the decision making abilities of human experts.

Creativity

the ability to generate novel, original, and useful ideas or solutions to problems.

Characteristics of Creative People

Openness to Experience

Risk Taking

Divergent Thinking

Tolerance for Ambiguity

Intrinsic Motivation

Divergent Thinking

involves generating multiple possible solutions to a problem.

convergent thinking

focuses on narrowing down options to find the single best solution

The Right Hemisphere

involved in abstract thinking, imagination, and connecting unrelated concepts.

left hemisphere

contributing to logical organization and language.

dorsolateral prefrontal cortex

plays a crucial role in planning, goal setting, and self regulation during creative tasks

The Default Mode Network (DMN)

active when individuals are at rest and not focused on the external environment; crucial for idea incubation and divergent thinking, enabling creative individuals to form new connections between seemingly unrelated ideas

The Executive Control Network (ECN)

helps in focusing attention and guiding creative processes in a structured way.

Stages of Creative Thinking

1. Preparation

2. Incubation

3. Illumination

4. Verification

Preparation

This stage involves gathering information and immersing oneself in a problem.

Incubation

During this period, the problem is set aside, allowing the subconscious mind to work on it.

incubation effect

ideas and solutions seem to emerge after a break from focused effort.

Illumination

Also known as the "Aha!" moment, this is when a solution or new idea suddenly comes to mind.

Verification

the idea is evaluated, tested, and refined

Analogical Reasoning

Creative thinkers often draw parallels between seemingly unrelated concepts, using analogies to find solutions.

Lateral Thinking

involves breaking away from traditional step by step thinking to explore different approaches

Factors Influencing Creativity

environment

Collaboration

Cognitive Flexibility

Culture

Cognitive Flexibility

The ability to shift between different thought patterns, perspectives, or approaches to a problem is critical for creativity.