Problem Solving

Abstract

Problem solving is the analysis and transformation of information toward a specific goal. This goal may be well‐ or ill‐defined; it may be directly attainable or require insight; and the solution may rely on a vast or sparse body of domain‐specific knowledge. Problem‐solving research reflects this variety of problem types through its breadth and extent. This chapter organizes the research according to three key processes involved in problem solving: (1) Representation—the process by which a solver selectively encodes the information given in a problem; (2) Choice—the process of selecting a single problem‐solving step among multiple possible ones; and (3) Learning—the process by which a solver's knowledge state is updated based on problem‐solving experience. For each process, major empirical results and theoretical models are presented. In particular, the chapter emphasizes theoretical work that uses computational modeling to explain and predict problem‐solving behavior.

Perspectives on Problem Solving in Educational Assessment: Analytical, Interactive, and Collaborative Problem Solving

“…According to Mayer (2003), a problem occurs when in any given state, a goal state needs to be reached, and there is no routine method of solution available. The subsequent process of transforming the given state into the desired goal state is defined as problem solving (Lovett, 2002) in which a phase of establishing a representation of the problem (knowledge acquisition; Klahr & Dunbar, 1988) is usually followed by the implementation of a solution process (knowledge application; Novick & Bassok, 2005). Within experimental and cognitive psychology, a large body of studies on problem solving has accumulated (cf.…”

New approach to analyzing physics problems: A Taxonomy of Introductory Physics Problems

“…Therefore, it is imperative that its limitations and its range of applicability are carefully explained. By problem solving we mean ''cognitive processing directed at achieving a goal when no solution method is obvious to the problem solver'' [14]. By taxonomy we mean ''an orderly classification of items according to their presumed natural relationship'' [15].…”

Enhancing Cognitive Development through Physics Problem Solving: A Taxonomy of Introductory Physics Problems

“…By problem solving we mean "cognitive processing directed at achieving a goal when no solution method is obvious to the problem solver" [19,20]. We adhere to the characterization of the problem-solving process proposed by Mayer and Wittrock [5]: "Problem solving is cognitive, that is, it occurs internally within the problem solver's cognitive system and can only be inferred indirectly from the problem solver's behavior.…”