Image Credit: www.slideshare.net
As depicted in the illustration above, a dilemma such as saving the world would certainly be considered an ill-defined problem. This is because a problem of this magnitude would not have its goals or steps clearly laid out. Additionally it is highly likely, or at least we would hope so for the sake of mankind, that there may be more than one approach or correct answers to solve the problem. Although, I believe that Einstein brings up a valid point, which is that in order to effectively solve a problem it is imperative to first fully understand exactly what the nature of the obstacle(s) is that is in the way of the goal. (Penn State, n.d.)
In the article Problem-Solving Strategies and Obstacles, Cherry (2016) writes about challenges that make problem solving difficult, which are similar to the barriers outlined in the lesson 13 commentary. According to Cherry, we are presented with a host of problems in our lives each day. These problems can range from minor issues such as, which route to take to work to avoid morning rush hour traffic to much larger issues like developing a five-year plan for your life and career path. In cognitive psychology, the act of problem solving is a mental process one uses to identify, analyze and find answers (Cherry, 2016) when it is not obvious how to overcome the obstacles that prevent you from achieving a goal, otherwise known as a problem (Goldstein, 2015).
The mental processes that are work during problem solving include; recognizing the problem, making a mental representation of the problem, considering the pertinent information applicable to the problem, identifying various facets of the problem and lastly describing or labeling it. Problem solving strategies may include; algorithms or a step-by step process to generate the correct answer (ex: mathematical formula), heuristics or a mental “rule of thumb” that may be applicable to certain scenarios but do not guarantee a correct solution, trial and error that is similar to the generate and test method described in the lesson where you try different solutions to see what works and insight in which a problem is similar to something you dealt with previously, like an analogy. (Cherry, 2016)
The obstacles to problem solving in which we encounter are mental set, functional fixedness, irrelevant or misleading information and Cherry also adds in assumptions. Mental set occurs when we only refer to solutions we have used in the past rather than attempting to identify new ideas that may be more effective. Functional fixedness is when we perceive problems in their usual manner that interferes with our ability to quickly solve the issue. The lesson indicates several examples of people failing to think of ways to use objects other than their primary or common purpose. Misleading information can lead to faulty solutions, which makes it important to have accurate and relevant information during the problem solving process. Lastly, assumptions regarding constraints can hinder the ability of a person to produce viable solutions. (Cherry, 2016)
So whether you are attempting to solve a math problem, a riddle or saving the world it is useful to keep in mind the strategies to effect problem solving while being aware of the obstacles you may face to finding an effective solution.
References
Cherry, K. (2016, August 31). Problem-Solving Strategies and Obstacles. Retrieved November 19, 2016 from https://www.verywell.com/problem-solving-2795008
Goldstein, E. B. (2015). Cognitive psychology: Connecting mind, research, and everyday experience (4th ed.). Australia: Wadsworth Cengage Learning.
Penn State World Campus (n.d.). Lesson 13: Problem Solving. Retrieved November 19, 2016 from https://psu.instructure.com/courses/1804143/modules/items/21169401