Problem Solving
Creative Cognition
The process of thinking in ways that lead to novel ideas or solutions.
2. Problem Space
All possible states and movements within and between them when solving a problem.
3. Fixation
A cognitive block that makes it harder to think outside the box.
Often linked to convergent thinking, where individuals get stuck on a single idea or design.
4. Preinventive Forms
Basic shapes or structures generated before a final solution is reached.
More frequently created by individuals with divergent thinking.
5. In Vivo Problem-Solving
Studying problem-solving in real-world settings rather than in the lab.
People rely more on deep features and prior knowledge in real-world contexts.
6. Expert
Someone with extensive knowledge or skill in a particular domain.
7. Goal State
The desired outcome or solution to a problem.
8. Source Problem
The original problem used as a reference in analogical problem-solving.
9. Analogical Problem-Solving
Applying knowledge from a source problem to solve a target problem.
10. Intermediate State
A step between the initial state and the goal state in problem-solving.
11. Operators
Actions that transition a problem from the initial state to the goal state.
12. Analogy
Using previous similar experiences to guide problem-solving.
13. Restructuring
Changing how a problem is perceived or represented to find a solution.
14. Savant Syndrome
A condition where individuals with developmental disorders excel exceptionally in a specific domain.
15. Initial State
The starting point of a problem.
16. Group Brainstorming
A technique used to reduce inhibition and promote the free flow of ideas.
17. Functional Fixedness
The tendency to see objects only in their usual function, making problem-solving more difficult.
18. Target Problem
The problem that one is trying to solve using analogical problem-solving.
19. Latent Inhibition
The brain’s ability to filter out irrelevant stimuli.
Reduced latent inhibition is linked to enhanced creativity and a greater openness to new ideas.
20. Water Jug Problem
A problem that illustrates mental set and how prior experience affects problem-solving.
21. Structural Features
Deep elements of a problem that define its core logic.
22. Surface Features
Superficial details of a problem that do not affect its underlying structure.
23. Analogical Transfer
The process of applying knowledge from one problem to another.
24. Radiation Problem
A classic study on analogical problem-solving that shows how similarity between problems aids in transferring solutions.
25. Analogical Paradox
The observation that people struggle to apply analogies in lab settings but frequently use them in real life.
26. Insight
The "Aha!" moment when a solution suddenly becomes clear.
Non-insight problems do not involve sudden realizations.
27. Subgoals
Intermediate steps that bring a problem closer to the goal state.
28. Mutilated Checkerboard Problem
Demonstrates how problem representation can affect difficulty in solving a problem.
29. Two-String Problem
A problem-solving task where the goal is to tie two strings together using creativity.
30. Tower of Hanoi
A classic brain teaser that requires moving disks between pegs while following specific rules.
31. Analogical Encoding
A process where comparing multiple examples strengthens the ability to recognize structural similarities in problems.
32. Divergent Thinking
Thinking outside the box to generate multiple solutions.
Opposite of convergent thinking, which seeks a single correct answer.
33. Mental Set
A preconceived approach to solving a problem, often based on past experiences.
34. Candle Problem
A classic test of functional fixedness where participants must find a way to attach a candle to a wall using limited materials.
35. Means-End Analysis
A problem-solving strategy that involves reducing the difference between the initial and goal states through subgoals.
36. Think-Aloud Protocol
A technique where participants verbalize their thought process while solving a problem.