Means-end Analysis (difference reduction)

- Commonly used in problem solving. It is a heuristic in which one

identifies the goal of a problem, assesses the current situation, and evaluates
what needs to be done to decrease the difference between the two
conditions.

3. Evaluate Solutions
- It helps to have in mind a clear criterion for the effectiveness of the solution.
4. Rethink and Redefine Problems and Solutions over Time
- An important final step in problem solving.
- It helps in improving solutions in every problem.

Obstacles To Solving Problems

There are a number of different obstacles that can interfere with our
ability to solve a problem quickly and efficiently. These barriers prevent
people from solving problems in the most efficient manner possible.

Fixation involves using a prior strategy and failing to look at a

problem from a fresh, new perspective.

Functional Fixedness
- the tendency to view problems only in their customary manner.
Functional fixedness prevents people from fully seeing all of the
different options that might be available to find a solution.
- The more we use an object one way, the harder it is to see new uses
for it because we have assigned a fixed function on the object.

Mental set - the individual tries to solve the problem in a particular

way that has worked in the past, rather than looking for alternative
ideas.

Lack of motivation and persistence

-

if students already have great problem solving abilities, that

hardly matters if they are not motivated to use them. Some
students avoid problems or give up too easily.

 Inadequate Emotional Control Emotion can facilitate or restrict

problem solving.
-

Students who are competent vs. Students with too much anxiety or
fear

Availability - the tendency to make decisions and solve problems

based on the information that we have available at the time.