Problem-Solving- Popular Beliefs and Evidence

Problem-Solving- Popular Beliefs and Evidence

Topic: Laypersons and scientists alike often report that after having tried to solve a problem for an entire day, “sleeping on it” led to a solution. Does sleep indeed promote problem-solving?

Question 1. Select a theoretical view/model of problem-solving (e.g., Gestalt psychology, information processing approach, etc.). What is the evidence that supports it? What evidence, if any, does not fit the model?

The theory of problem-solving that I chose for this assignment is Gestalt psychology. Accordingly, this theory argues that problem-solving is either a matter of being reproductive, meaning reproducing already known responses to problems, or being productive, which implies trial and error. Reproductive problem-solving comes from the knowledge gained from previous experiences, which is in agreement with what behaviourists claim. On the other hand, Gestalt psychology argues that productive problem-solving is based on the restructuring of the problem and insight, all leading to an abrupt realization of a solution (Robinson-Riegler & Robinson-Riegler, 2016). There is no evidence to prove Gestalt’s psychology on problem-solving due to imprecision and vagueness. For example, there is no explanation of what insight is or how the restructuring of the problem occurs (Robinson-Riegler & Robinson-Riegler, 2016). These terms are both phenomena used to explain the phenomenon of problem-solving, which is detrimental to the theory.

Question 2. Are experts better at solving problems than non-experts? If so, what is responsible for experts’ superior performance? Is their superiority general or limited to their field of expertise?

Yes, experts are better at solving problems than non-experts. This superior performance of experts results from the adaptive strategy model. Accordingly, this model has four layers, the first being strategy existence. Experts have a lot of experience; hence, they are bound to have many more strategies for solving problems than non-experts (Robinson-Riegler & Robinson-Riegler, 2016). The second layer is the strategy base rate, which means that in an array of strategies, experts know which strategy will work best in a certain situation (Robinson-Riegler & Robinson-Riegler, 2016). The third layer is strategy choice, which means that experts have the advantage of determining which strategy would be best suited for a particular situation. The last layer is strategy execution, which refers to the experts’ capability to carry out the strategy successfully. In my perspective, an expert’s superior performance is limited to their field of performance.

Question 3. Are there individual differences in problem-solving abilities? For instance, is working memory’s capacity linked to one’s ability to solve problems?  

Yes, there are individual differences in problem-solving abilities, all which are influenced by various factors, including gender. Robinson-Riegler & Robinson-Riegler (2016) explain how negative stereotypes, specifically the one stating that men are better at math than women, can affect one’s cognitive performance, leading to the stereotype being true. This theory is supported by Schmader, Johns, & Forbes (2008), who demonstrate that factors, including physiological stress and a person’s efforts to suppress negative emotions and thoughts, take up a significant part of the brain resources needed to carry out cognitive functions.

References

Robinson-Riegler, B., & Robinson-Riegler, G. (2016). Cognitive psychology: Applying the science of the mind. Pearson.

Schmader, T., Johns, M., & Forbes, C. (2008). An integrated process model of stereotype threat effects on performance. Psychological review, 115(2), 336.

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In this discussion forum, you will assess the validity of popular assumptions and beliefs about problem-solving. Please note that your answers need to be supported by scientific evidence. For your initial post, complete the steps below: Check the reply from Marie below to see if there is anything extra to add to your discussion.

Problem-Solving- Popular Beliefs and Evidence

Watch the video, Rory Sutherland: Sweat the Small StuffLinks to an external site., on how simplicity can benefit problem-solving.
Select ONLY ONE of the following topics:
Laypersons and scientists alike often report that after having tried to solve a problem for an entire day, “sleeping on it” led to a solution. Does sleep indeed promote problem-solving?
Laypersons and scientists alike often report that a solution to a problem may come to mind after having taken a break from thinking about the problem. Does incubation really work?
NOW ANSWER THE QUESTIONS BELOW FOR THE TOPIC YOU SELECTED:
Select a theoretical view/model of problem-solving (e.g., Gestalt psychology, information processing approach, etc.). What is the evidence that supports it? What evidence, if any, does not fit the model?
Are experts better at solving problems than non-experts? If so, what is responsible for experts’ superior performance? Is their superiority general or limited to their field of expertise?
Are there individual differences in problem-solving abilities? For instance, is working memory’s capacity linked to one’s ability to solve problems?
After you select a topic, access the University of Arizona Global Campus Library and Google Scholar and review the literature on problem-solving. Then select a research article that answers the questions related to the selected topic. Finally, share the evidence you have uncovered and your critical examination of such evidence with the class. Your initial post must be a minimum of 200 words.
Please note that your answers need to be supported by scientific evidence. For your initial post, complete the steps below:

Watch the video, Rory Sutherland: Sweat the Small Stuff (Links to an external site.), on how simplicity can benefit problem-solving.
Select ONE of the following topics: Post the question you are referencing at the beginning of your discussion.
1. Laypersons and scientists alike often report that after having tried to solve a problem for an entire day, “sleeping on it” led to a solution. Does sleep indeed promote problem-solving?
2. Laypersons and scientists alike often report that a solution to a problem may come to mind after having taken a break from thinking about the problem. Does incubation really work?
NOW ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS FOR THE ONE TOPIC YOU HAVE CHOSEN FOR THIS DISCUSSION: Don’t forget to post the question and then answer it!
A) Select a theoretical view/model of problem-solving (e.g., Gestalt psychology, information processing approach, etc.). What is the evidence that supports it? What evidence, if any, does not fit the model?
B) Are experts better at solving problems than non-experts? If so, what is responsible for experts’ superior performance? Is their superiority general or limited to their field of expertise?
C) Are there individual differences in problem-solving abilities? For instance, is working memory’s capacity linked to one’s ability to solve problems?