Question

write an essay of about ten typed pages to answer the following questions:

a)what is a problem?

b)give an explanation of the term problem solving

c)what would you do to develop learners' problem solving skills?

your assay should include how each of the following is related to problem solving:

- explain what a problem is

-what kinds of problems there are

-problem-solving strategies

-representations

-prior knowledge

-cognitive architecture and memory

-knowledge organisation

your essay should include a discussion of practical implications of cognitive science for improving learners' problem-solving skills.

Answer 1

A problem can be defined as the difference or a perceived gap between an existing state and the desired state or what one has and what one wants. It also relates to a deviation from a norm, standard, or status quo.

There are four types of problems. The first type of problem is known, and its solution requires action, correct mindset and self-motivation. The second type of problem is also known, and its solution requires additional expertise, better technique and additional skills. The third type of problem is known, and its solution requires new approaches, reframing or rearrangement of already available information, insightful restructuring and creative thinking. The fourth type of problem is unknown, and needs to be recognized. Handling unknown problems requires challenging assumptions, benchmarking and cross-pollination of ideas.

A problem-solving strategy is a plan of action developed to obtain a solution to the problem. Trial and error is a famous and fundamental method of problem solving. It involves repeated attempts of different kinds until success is achieved or the person discontinues making attempts.

Problem representation takes place when a person converts a problem’s description into mental models in two stages, that is, problem translation and integration. Problem translation relates to the selection of concepts from the textual description of the problem by using linguistic and semantic knowledge. Problem integration takes place when a person connects or integrates sentences in a problem's description, to form a complex representation. The creation of internal mental representations or mental models implies that the person has already comprehended the problem.

Prior knowledge helps an individual to complete an activity. It provides an opportunity for retrieval practice and elaboration. The connection of new material to the activated prior knowledge helps an individual to frame a more structured and enhanced memory for the new material.

Cognitive architecture in humans relates to the manner in which structures and functions required for human cognitive processes are organized. Cognitive architecture theory summarizes the results of cognitive psychology in a comprehensive computer model. Working memory relates to the structure that processes information arriving from either of the two sources, that is, the environment or the long-term memory. It also transfers learned material to long-term memory for the purpose of storage.

Knowledge organization relates to creation of large memory structures or knowledge structures and the large-scale organization of memory. Organized knowledge provides a strong and clear foundation for easy and quick problem solving.

For improving learners' problem-solving skills one needs to exercise his or her mind. A person can improve problem solving skills by framing a plan of action or problem solving strategies. One also needs to analyze or examine himself or herself to enhance problem solving skills. They need to reflect upon their personal limitations like lack of confidence. A person firstly and most importantly needs to react normally to difficult situations in life, so that he can think of new ways of problem solving and better the situation. It is very important to focus on the solution, rather than the problem. People quickly start to imagine repercussions of the problem or situation and consequently experience negative emotions. They need to stay calm and composed to focus on the problem and find a solution.