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ProblemSolving

The document outlines the definition of problems and problem-solving, emphasizing the systematic approach of the problem-solving cycle, which includes steps like problem identification, strategy formulation, and evaluation. It categorizes problems into well-structured and ill-structured types, discusses various problem-solving approaches such as Gestalt and analogical problem solving, and highlights obstacles like functional fixedness and mental set. Additionally, it covers characteristics of expert problem solvers, the role of creativity in problem-solving, and provides example problems for practice.

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6 views

ProblemSolving

The document outlines the definition of problems and problem-solving, emphasizing the systematic approach of the problem-solving cycle, which includes steps like problem identification, strategy formulation, and evaluation. It categorizes problems into well-structured and ill-structured types, discusses various problem-solving approaches such as Gestalt and analogical problem solving, and highlights obstacles like functional fixedness and mental set. Additionally, it covers characteristics of expert problem solvers, the role of creativity in problem-solving, and provides example problems for practice.

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© © All Rights Reserved
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1.

Definition of Problem and Problem-Solving

• Problem: An obstacle between a present state and a goal, where the solution isn’t obvious.

o Example: Wanting to study but being distracted by noise.

• Problem-Solving: The process of identifying a goal and overcoming obstacles to reach it.

2. The Problem-Solving Cycle

A step-by-step approach to systematically solve problems:

1. Problem Identification: Is there an actual problem?

2. Problem Definition and Representation: What exactly is the problem?

o Example: Identifying whether poor grades are due to study habits or distractions.

3. Strategy Formulation: Developing ways to solve the problem:

o Analysis: Breaking the problem into smaller parts.

o Synthesis: Combining elements to form a new solution.

o Divergent Thinking: Brainstorming multiple solutions.

o Convergent Thinking: Narrowing options to the best solution.

4. Organization of Information: Determining how pieces of information fit together.

5. Resource Allocation: Deciding time, effort, and resources.

o Example: Balancing time between studying and extracurriculars.

6. Monitoring: Tracking progress towards solving the problem.

7. Evaluation: Reviewing whether the solution worked.

3. Types of Problems

• Well-structured Problems: Clear steps and solutions (e.g., solving a math equation).

• Ill-structured Problems: Ambiguous paths to solutions (e.g., resolving workplace


conflicts).

Heuristics: Mental shortcuts used for quick decisions.

• Example: Choosing the fastest route home without checking maps.

• Advantage: Saves time.

• Disadvantage: Can lead to errors.


4. Approaches to Problem-Solving

A. Gestalt Approach

• Focuses on how problems are mentally represented and how restructuring this
representation leads to solutions.

• Key Concepts:

1. Restructuring: Changing how a problem is viewed.

▪ Example: Realizing a matchbox can be used as a stand, not just a container


(Candle Problem).

2. Insight: A sudden realization of a solution.

▪ Example: Figuring out the “aha!” moment during a tricky puzzle.

B. Information-Processing Approach

• Views problem-solving as navigating a “problem space” from the initial state to the goal
state.

• Key Elements:

1. Initial State: Starting condition.

2. Goal State: Desired outcome.

3. Operators: Actions that move the problem to different states.

4. Means-End Analysis: Breaking the problem into subgoals to reduce the gap.

▪ Example: Solving the Tower of Hanoi puzzle by moving one disc at a time.

C. Analogical Problem Solving

• Using a previously solved problem (source) to guide the solution of a new problem (target).

• Steps:

1. Noticing similarities.

2. Mapping the correspondence.

3. Applying the mapping to solve the target problem.

• Example:

o Radiation Problem: Using multiple weak rays to treat a tumor without damaging
surrounding tissues.
5. Overcoming Obstacles

A. Functional Fixedness

• Limiting the use of an object to its traditional purpose.

o Example: Using pliers as weights (Two-String Problem).

B. Mental Set

• Sticking to past strategies that worked, even when they’re ineffective now.

Strategies to Overcome Fixation:

1. Incubation: Taking a break to reset the mind.

2. Getting Ideas from Others: Fresh perspectives can inspire new solutions.

3. Distributed Effort: Working in multiple sessions instead of all at once.

6. Expert Problem-Solving

Characteristics of Experts:

1. More Knowledge: Experts have extensive knowledge stored in patterns or “chunks.”

o Example: Chess masters recognize board configurations quickly.

2. Better Organization: Experts organize information by principles rather than surface details.

3. Time Allocation: Experts analyze problems deeply before jumping to solutions.

4. Specialized Skills: Expertise is usually limited to their field.

Disadvantages:

• Experts may struggle with flexible thinking when new approaches are needed.

7. Creativity and Problem-Solving

A. Practical Creativity

• Divergent Thinking: Generating multiple solutions.

• Creativity requires originality and usefulness.

B. Generating Ideas

• Techniques:

1. Brainstorming: Encourages free expression without judgment.


2. Creative Cognition: Generating “preinventive forms” (rough ideas) before finalizing
a product.

C. Brain and Creativity

1. Default Mode Network (DMN):

o Active during mind-wandering and incubation phases.

o Associated with spontaneous idea generation.

2. Executive Control Network (ECN):

o Directs focus during creative tasks.

o Active during evaluation and refinement of ideas.

8. Example Problems for Practice

1. Nine-Dot Problem: Draw four lines through all nine dots without lifting the pen.

o Key: Think outside the perceived square boundary.

2. Candle Problem: Attach a candle to a wall using only a box of matches and tacks.

o Key: Use the matchbox as a support, not just a container.

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