Problem Solving Approaches

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Questions and Answers

In the context of problem solving, what does it mean to represent a problem at a deeper level?

Breaking down the problem into smaller, more manageable subproblems.
Using a variety of different problem-solving strategies to approach the problem.
Focusing on the surface features of the problem, rather than its underlying structure.
Identifying the key concepts and principles that are relevant to the problem. (correct)

What is a key difference between how experts and novices approach problem solving?

Experts are more likely to use pre-existing knowledge to solve problems, while novices rely on more intuitive approaches.
Experts spend more time identifying and representing the problem, while novices spend more time choosing a solution strategy. (correct)
Experts are more likely to use trial-and-error methods, while novices rely on more systematic approaches.
Novices are more likely to focus on the surface features of the problem, while experts pay more attention to its underlying structure.

Based on the text, what is a possible reason why experts are faster at processing meaningful information?

They have a more extensive knowledge base and can access relevant information more quickly.
They are more likely to use heuristics and mental shortcuts to solve problems.
They have a greater ability to focus their attention and filter out irrelevant information.
All of the above. (correct)

What is the main idea of the text?

Experts and novices differ significantly in their problem-solving approaches. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Based on the text, what is a likely difference in how experts and novices might categorize physics problems?

Experts categorize problems based on their underlying principles, while novices categorize them based on their surface features. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What defines a problem according to the provided information?

It involves an obstacle between a current state and a goal. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following approaches to problem solving is proposed by Gestalt Psychologists?

Problem solving involving restructuring. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is considered a characteristic of expert problem solvers?

They deploy structured methods and analogies. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What factor is essential in defining metacognition in problem solving?

Having knowledge of one's own thought processes. (C) Signup and view all the answers

How can individuals apply problem solving using analogies?

By drawing parallels with similar situations. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT a characteristic of a problem as defined in the content?

A clear solution is readily available. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which term describes the cognitive process used when individuals reflect on their own problem solving methods?

Metacognition (D) Signup and view all the answers

What does the process of problem solving involve?

Reorganisation or restructuring of the problem representation (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated by the expression 'x = r' in the context of the circle problem?

The radius of the circle (B) Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes an insight problem?

Involves a sudden realization of a solution, often referred to as an ‘Aha!’ experience (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is one example of an insight problem given in the content?

Moving 3 pins to make a triangle face downwards (A) Signup and view all the answers

How can experience impact problem solving?

Experience can either aid or hinder the problem-solving process (D) Signup and view all the answers

What do obstacles to problem solving generally refer to?

Challenges that prevent effective resolution of problems (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the process of restructuring in problem solving?

It involves changing the representation of the problem to find a solution (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is an essential feature of the triangle problem mentioned in the content?

It involves moving pins to alter the triangle's orientation (D) Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, which statement is true about the perception of problems?

Different representations can lead to novel solutions (D) Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of participants with a mental set solved problem 7 using the shorter solution?

Less than 25% (A) Signup and view all the answers

In Luchin's water-jug problem, what was the initial state defined as?

The condition at the beginning of the problem (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the term 'goal state' in the context of problem-solving?

The desired condition at the end of the problem (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which element in problem space represents permissible moves to achieve the goal?

Operators (C) Signup and view all the answers

What effect did beginning with problem 1 have on participants' approach to problem 7?

It established a mental set that hindered finding the shorter solution. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What was the main focus of Newell and Simon's problem-solving model?

The transition from initial to goal states through operators (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a component of a problem space as defined by Newell and Simon?

Solution path (B) Signup and view all the answers

What factor can significantly affect the ability to solve problems effectively according to Luchin’s findings?

Prior experience with similar problems (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which term describes the various conditions that exist between the initial and goal states?

Intermediate states (D) Signup and view all the answers

How does establishing a mental set affect problem-solving outcomes?

It makes it harder to find innovative solutions. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary objective in solving the Tower of Hanoi problem?

To move all rings to peg C (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about operators in the Tower of Hanoi is true?

You can only move one ring at a time. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the means-end analysis strategy used for?

To reduce the distance between the initial and goal states (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a rule for moving rings in the Tower of Hanoi?

Larger rings can be placed on smaller ones (C) Signup and view all the answers

In the Tower of Hanoi, what constitutes an intermediate state?

Any configuration closer to the goal state. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the initial state in the Tower of Hanoi problem?

All rings on peg A (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which strategy is employed in reducing the complexity of the Tower of Hanoi problem?

Means-end analysis (D) Signup and view all the answers

What role do subgoals play in solving the Tower of Hanoi problem?

They help bridge the gap between initial and goal states. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What happens if a large ring is placed on a smaller ring in the Tower of Hanoi?

It violates the rules of the game. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Problem Solving

The process of overcoming obstacles to reach a goal when a solution isn't immediately obvious.

What is a Problem?

A situation requiring a solution where the way forward isn't clear.