Problem Solving Strategies and Obstacles

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Questions and Answers

What are algorithms primarily used for in problem-solving?

To generate step-by-step procedures that guarantee a solution (correct)

To simplify thinking strategies

To promote creative thinking

To find solutions through sudden realization

Which cognitive strategy is described as a simpler thinking approach that reduces options?

Heuristic (correct)

Algorithm

Insight

Trial and error

What is a key feature of insight as a problem-solving strategy?

It is more predictable than heuristics

It results from sudden realization (correct)

It relies on a step-by-step algorithm

It often involves prolonged contemplation

What does confirmation bias lead individuals to do?

Favor evidence that supports their existing ideas Signup and view all the answers

What role does the right temporal lobe play in problem-solving, according to brain scans?

Facilitating the moment of insight Signup and view all the answers

How does trial and error differ from algorithm-based problem solving?

Trial and error does not follow a set procedure. Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome of Peter Wason's experiment with the three numbers?

Students assumed the rule was counting by twos. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of cognitive tendencies in problem-solving?

They can lead to effective decision-making. Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of fixation that inhibits problem solving?

Mental set Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes intuition?

It is recognition based on past experience. Signup and view all the answers

What can fixation result from?

Inflexibility in changing perspectives. Signup and view all the answers

How can intuition affect decision-making?

It allows for quick responses based on learned experiences. Signup and view all the answers

What role does the unconscious mind play in intuition?

It aids in processing information without conscious awareness. Signup and view all the answers

When might it be beneficial to 'sleep on' a complex decision?

When you want your unconscious mind to work on the problem. Signup and view all the answers

How do smart thinkers typically use intuition in their decision-making?

They balance intuitive thoughts with evidence and critical thinking. Signup and view all the answers

What is confirmation bias?

The tendency to look for evidence that supports existing beliefs. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Problem Solving Strategies and Obstacles

Problem-solving strategies: Trial and error, algorithms (step-by-step procedures guaranteeing a solution), heuristics (simpler thinking strategies), and insight (sudden realization).
Algorithms: Guaranteed solutions but can be laborious, such as trying every letter combination to solve SPLOYOGHYG.
Heuristics: Faster strategies that simplify problem-solving by eliminating less likely options (e.g. grouping similar letters in SPLOYOCHYG).
Insight: Sudden comprehension of a problem's solution, often involving activity in specific brain regions (frontal lobe for focusing, right temporal lobe for revelation). Insight is not limited to humans; chimpanzees and birds also demonstrate similar problem-solving abilities.

Cognitive Tendencies Hindering Problem Solving

Confirmation bias: Tendency to seek evidence confirming one's view while ignoring contradicting evidence. Examples from the Wason experiment (students' assumption the rule was counting by twos when another rule explained the pattern).
Fixation: Inability to view a problem from a fresh perspective, hampering effective decision-making.
Mental set: Tendency to approach a problem with a mindset based on previous successes, even if newer strategies might be more effective (e.g. numerical pattern in the example sequence O-T-T-F-?).

The Power and Perils of Intuition

Intuition: Recognition born of experience (implicit knowledge), leading to quick judgements based on learned associations in experienced individuals (e.g. nurses, firefighters).
Adaptive Intuition: Intuition is generally useful because learned associations from experience aid in survival and decision-making.
Unconscious Processes: Intuition relies on unconscious mind processes, which play a role in complex decision-making. Although studies are not uniform, sometimes unconscious thought can improve decision-making in a complex scenario.
Critical evaluation: Smart thinkers require intentional critical thinking beyond immediate intuitive judgements.

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Description

This quiz explores various problem-solving strategies including algorithms, heuristics, and insight. It also examines cognitive tendencies like confirmation bias that can hinder effective problem solving. Test your understanding of these concepts and their applications in real-life scenarios.