In-Depth Notes on Problem Solving Techniques and Analogical Transfer

Bread and Butter Analogy

• Bread and butter are often paired as a metaphor for basic or inherent parts of problem-solving.
• The most likely teams to find a proper solution are referred to as the "bread and butter" teams, suggesting they operate well together.
• Conversely, a less likely group is humorously referred to as "group A".

Problem-Solving in Groups

• Problems are generally easier to solve when the elements of the problem guide you toward the correct representation.
• Engaging with a problem in a tangible way (using physical representations) can significantly enhance the likelihood of arriving at a solution.

The Importance of Prior Assumptions

• Participants tend to walk into problems with varying contexts, often having assumptions about the presence or existence of solutions based on previous experiences inside the lab or classroom.

Effective Problem-Solving Techniques

• Think Aloud Technique: Vocalizing thoughts while trying to solve a problem can provide a different perspective and may lead to mental breakthroughs.
• Analogical Transfer: This involves applying solutions from previously encountered similar problems to new challenges.
  • When faced with a new problem, recalling strategies from older, contextually similar problems can be beneficial.

Characteristics of Analogical Transfer

• Distinction between target problems (current issues) and source problems (previously encountered issues) is critical in facilitating analogical transfer.
• Structural similarities between these problems aid in applying previously learned strategies to find solutions.

Example Problem: Progression Free Throws

• Description of a problem involving a community of bachelors and unmarried women — relates to matching and rearranging solutions (marriages).
• The analysis of thought processes demonstrates that recognizing structural similarity is vital for effective transfer of knowledge.

Example Problem: Mutilated Checkerboard

• This problem had no direct relation to matchmaking but shared structural components, allowing for identifying color column patterns that were instrumental in solving.
• Learning multiple problems results in a compound understanding and ease of solution when structural similarities are pointed out.

Radiation Problem by Karl Duncker

• Scenario: A tumor is to be treated with radiation beams which destroy healthy tissue if the dose is too high, leading to a dilemma in treatment application.
• Groups in the study showcased varied rates of success depending on whether they had encountered analogous problems (source problems) first.
• Groups & Performance:
  • Group A: Busywork followed by the radiation problem; 10% success.
  • Group B: Encountered previous source story without support; similar low rates of success.
  • Group C: Providing hints dramatically increased the chances of finding the correct solution.

Implications of Studies on Problem Solving

• Noticing and Mapping: Identifying similarities in structural elements is pivotal to successful transfer of knowledge; the more overt the similarity, the easier it is to apply previous knowledge.
• Challenges in Transfer: Success in real life problem solving is more consistent than performance in lab situations, indicating a disparity between abstract problem scenarios and practical, real-world challenges.

Conclusion and Real-World Applications

• The Analogical Paradox: Research indicates humans struggle with abstract lab problems; however, they are adept at real-world problem solving.
• Future research should shift focus to real-world scenarios to better understand how people solve problems spontaneously in varied environments.
• Effective problem solvers possess creativity and can arrive at solutions that are later perceived as common sense.
• In situ research may offer deeper insights, acknowledging that the richness of everyday problem-solving will yield a more realistic understanding of human cognitive capabilities.