In this discussion forum, you will assess the validity of popular assumptions and beliefs about problem solving.
Please note that your answers need be supported by scientific evidence. For your initial post, complete the
steps below:
1) Watch the video, Rory Sutherland: Sweat the Small Stuff (Links to an external site.), on how simplicity can
benefit problem solving.
2) Select ONE of the following topics:
a) 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?
or
b) 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 ALL the following questions for the one topic you have chosen;
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?
2) Do you think experts are 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?
3) Are there individual differences in problem-solving abilities? For instance, is working memory’s capacity
linked to one’s ability to solve problems?
Sample Solution