Question 1

Describe the difference between an algorithm and a heuristic.

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Question 2

Anna said she could not put batteries in her new toy because she did not have a screwdriver. What problem-solving difficulty did not prompt her to find another device she could use to serve the same purpose?
A) Confirmation bias
B) Working backwards
C) Functional fixedness
D) Lack of imagination

Accepted Answer

Anna's inability to see the screwdriver as anything other than a tool for screwing objects may point to functional fixedness, which is a form of cognitive bias that prevents individuals from using familiar objects in new and creative ways.

Question 3

What is decision making?

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Question 4

Define functional fixedness and provide an example.

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Question 5

What technique can be used with well-defined problems in which the goal is considered first, then problem solving moves back towards the current state?

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Question 6

Describe how analogies can help with problem solving and provide an example.

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Question 7

When a large problem is divided into smaller pieces, __________ are formed.

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Question 8

Although James worked on his chemistry homework for several hours, he still did not understand it. While taking a break to watch television, he gained insight into the processes he had studied. What term describes his "break"?
A) Encoding period
B) Incubation period
C) Retrieval period
D) Critical period

Accepted Answer

The term that describes James' "break" is the incubation period. This is the period where the brain continues to work on a problem subconsciously even when the conscious mind is not focused on it. The incubation period can often lead to sudden insights or breakthroughs, as was the case with James.

Question 9

What area of the brain is typically damaged when people display dysexecutive syndrome?

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Question 10

The tendency to look for information during problem solving that meets our expectations is known as __________.

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Question 11

The "string problem" is a classic measure that assesses functional fixedness.

Accepted Answer

The statement is true. The "string problem" is a classic measure of functional fixedness, a cognitive bias that limits a person's ability to use an object in unconventional ways. In the string problem, participants are given a set of objects, including a string, and are asked to find ways to use the objects to solve a problem. Participants who are able to think beyond the typical use of the string demonstrate reduced functional fixedness.

Question 12

What pattern describes the tendency to use strategies that have worked in the past?

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Question 13

Instances when we are able to solve a problem with little effort or concentration occur as a result of __________.

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Question 14

It is often difficult to find solution strategies for __________ problems.

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Question 15

What is the first step in solving a problem?

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Question 16

Describe how the capacity for cognitive control changes as people age.

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Question 17

Insight typically follows periods during which we mentally "set aside" a problem.

Accepted Answer

This statement is true. Research has shown that taking breaks from problem-solving can lead to insights and increased creativity.

Question 18

The use of heuristics is a "best guess" that does not guarantee a solution.

Accepted Answer

Heuristics are problem-solving strategies that involve making educated guesses or intuitive decisions, based on past experiences or limited information. Although they can be effective in finding a solution quickly, they do not guarantee a correct or optimal solution.

Question 19

When a problem is well-defined individuals are more likely to find successful solution strategies.

Accepted Answer

When a problem is well-defined, it means that the problem's parameters, possible solutions, and the criteria for measuring success are clearly defined. This clarity helps individuals form a more focused and targeted approach to finding solutions, increasing the likelihood of success.

Question 20

A machine can perform millions of calculations per second. This characteristic allows it to use what type of problem solving strategy?
A) Insight
B) Functional
C) Algorithm
D) Heuristic

Accepted Answer

A machine's ability to perform millions of calculations per second make it better suited to use algorithms, which are step-by-step processes for solving problems, in contrast to heuristic strategies, which are more approximate and rely on broad rules of thumb.

Quiz 9: Language and Thought