Problem Solving Strategies Techniques An Overview of Possibilities

Problem Solving Strategies & Techniques An Overview of Possibilities

A Brief Outline of Strategies/Techniques • • Algorithm Methodology Heuristic Approaches Computer Simulations Analogies Modeling Role Playing Criticism and Suggestion Public Solutions

Specific Strategies • Algorithm (Matlin, 2005) 1. List of specific procedures, recipes, formulas, or set of directions. 2. Types of algorithms a. Maze algorithm b. Split Half Method 3. Requires an exhaustive search

Heuristic approaches • Hill Climbing Heuristic(Matlin, 2005) 1. Imagine Climbing Hill 2. Select alternatives that directly achieve goal

Means-End Heuristic (Matlin, 2005) • Divide problem into set of smaller problems • Diminish the discrepancy between the sub problems and the desired goal.

Computer Simulation (Matlin, 2005) • Computer programs developed to demonstrate a task performed by humans

Analogies(Matlin, 2005) • Defined as using a solution from previous problem or issue to find solution for current problem • Problem isomorphs-set of problems that have similar fundamental structures, but have dissimilar features • Appropriate uses 1. Identify structurally similar problems 2. solving of statistical problems if properly trained in method.

Modeling (Harris, 1998) • Purpose 1. Make idea tangible 2. Determine possible connections between ideas 3. Simplification of complex issues 4. Present problem in a manner that permits understanding and solutions

Modeling, cont’d • Modeling Categories 1. Conceptual a. Used to make idea concrete 2. Structural a. Models of physical structures

Modeling, cont’d • Modeling Types 1. Visual 2. Physical 3. Mathematical 4. Analogical

Role Playing (Harris, 1998) • Three different techniques 1. Mental Practice. 2. Become someone else 3. Mental transformation

Criticism & Suggestion (Harris, 1998) • Defined as incorporation of observations of critics to make improvements to a plan

Criticism & Suggestions, cont’d • Some basic guiding principles a. Advanced selection of set nmber of people b. Frame appeal in a constructive manner c. Ask several different kinds of people d. After gaining confidence, request analysis of deficiencies

Public Solutions (Harris, 1998) • Place problem and request for solutions in a public forum and have solutions forwarded to you.

References Cited • Harris, Robert. (2002) Problem Solving Techniques. Retrieved September 8, 2008 from http//www. virtualsoft. com • Matlin, Margaret W. (2005) Cognition (6 th ed) Danvers, MA. Wiley & Sons