Problem solving and creativity

AP Psychology — Problem Solving, Decision Making, and Creativity (Notes)

Problem Solving

Problem solving: active process of finding a way to achieve a goal that is not immediately obvious.

Four stages of problem solving:

  1. Identify the problem — recognize the issue.

  2. Generate possible solutions — think of options.

  3. Evaluate solutions — analyze effectiveness.

  4. Implement and evaluate results — try and check outcome.

Trial and Error

  • testing multiple solutions and eliminating failures

  • inefficient and time-consuming

  • no systematic plan

Algorithms vs Heuristics

Algorithm

  • step-by-step procedure

  • guarantees correct solution (if followed correctly)

  • slow and effortful

  • example: mathematical formulas

Heuristic

  • mental shortcut or rule-of-thumb

  • quick and efficient

  • does not guarantee accuracy

  • based on experience or educated guesses

Barriers to Problem Solving

Mental Set

  • using familiar strategies even when better ones exist.

Functional Fixedness

  • inability to see new uses for familiar objects.

Confirmation Bias

  • seeking information that supports beliefs and ignoring opposing evidence.

Framing

  • decisions influenced by how information is presented.

Overconfidence

  • overestimating accuracy of one’s knowledge or judgments.

Creativity

Ability to produce ideas that are novel, original, and useful.
Not strongly related to IQ.

Types of Thinking

Divergent Thinking

  • generates many possible solutions

  • creative and flexible

Convergent Thinking

  • focuses on one correct answer

  • logical and conventional

Brainstorming

  • generating many ideas without judging them first

  • increases creativity and participation

Insight

  • sudden realization of a solution (“aha” moment).

Incubation

  • unconscious processing after taking a break from a problem

  • helps overcome mental blocks.

Important Heuristics

Availability Heuristic

  • judging likelihood based on how easily examples come to mind.

Representativeness Heuristic

  • judging based on similarity to a prototype or stereotype.

Related Concepts

  • Metacognition: thinking about one’s thinking.

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI): machines performing human cognitive tasks.

  • Expert System: AI that mimics expert decision making.

  • Belief Perseverance: holding beliefs despite contradictory evidence.

  • Illusion of Knowing: believing you understand something when you do not.