When a person is in an examination hall trying to solve a problem, and suddenly the teacher stands above that person, the student feels nervous and may solve the problem incorrectly. Common scenario? Another example could be when a person lives where the temperature is too high. Could this affect problem-solving? If certain factors could reduce the capacity to solve a problem, then can certain factors also heighten the skills to solve problems?
Problem-solving refers to the cognitive processes involved in finding a solution to a problem. Nevertheless, it is well known that environmental factors affect our cognitive processes. Since problem solving also involves cognition, it is also affected by many factors. Not every solution needs to be effective. It may happen that the first solution that comes to mind is not the most effective, and the more the solution is brainstormed and discussed, the better solution one can come up with.
The following factors obstruct problem-solving
Mental set − Mental set refers to our tendency to solve certain problems the same way we used to. These are fixed ways of solving a problem using old methods; there is no other way of thinking. For example, a student has three papers lined up and has to study for them all. The most common solution would be to study the first paper that is coming, but it may happen that this might not be effective. Another solution can be to study difficult, moderate, and then easy subjects or to study the easy ones first and then move on to the hard ones.
Functional fixedness − in this sense, it is the tendency to think of the most common use of any object. For example, everyone has seen puzzles like "Use this amount of matchsticks to make this or that object. However, most people cannot solve these puzzles, as they are fixed on the number or the most common use of the object. This involves abstract thinking to solve a problem, but functional fixedness could restrain problem-solving skills.
Irrelevant information − At all times, there are hundreds of stimuli around us in every form, be it audio, visual, or tactile, but we are exposed to various stimuli. Much information could be irrelevant to our problem-solving, creating dissatisfaction. For example, while someone is telling a riddle and we need to solve it, if one has observed much irrelevant information being given out and the answer is pretty obvious, but due to that irrelevant information, we pay attention to the information and thus miss out on the answer.
Insight − When we face unfamiliar situations, the old solutions do not help. The same perspective does not help in finding the solution to the problem. To get more insight into the problem, a different perspective is needed. However, as stated above, it is sometimes difficult for us to see things from a different perspective.
Resources available − Sometimes, even when we have found the solution, applying it to the problem is what matters. One thing to be noticed when we find a solution is its effectiveness. A person may not have all the needed resources, which can hinder solving a problem.
Though many factors hinder problem-solving, on the other hand, there are facilitating factors as well:
Motivation − motivation is positively correlated with problem-solving skills. This means that the higher the motivation, the more efficient problem-solving is. For example, a person has to finish the presentation by a deadline, and this high motivation will encourage the person to look for solutions on how he can complete the presentation in the stipulated time. Motivation fuels the person internally and encourages him or her to achieve the goal more efficiently.
Self-efficacy − self-efficacy refers to the belief in one's capabilities. When a person is self-efficient, then the person knows that he will find the solution. This self-belief pushes the person to brainstorm and think about various strategies they could adopt to solve the problem.
Perception − Perception is highly correlated with problem-solving abilities. This indicates that we can find a solution when we see a problem as something that could be solved or a challenge. Nevertheless, on the other hand, if the person sees the problem as a threat or harm, the approach to that problem would be very different.
Teamwork skills − Most solutions are found when they are discussed and debated. When a person works in a team, s/he is exposed to a +variety of ideas and attitudes. This helps in finding an effective solution or modifying a solution that would be adaptive.
The following are the measures that are implemented to improve problem-solving abilities
Acquire Technical Knowledge in Your Field − It is well acknowledged that in order to carry out one's jobs and activities, people rely heavily on technology. Individuals must be knowledgeable about how to use technology.
Look for chances to solve problems − There are several chances accessible for delivering answers to challenges. However, these possibilities must be pursued. Individuals must raise awareness and expand their grasp of the opportunities. In certain circumstances, managers and teachers raise individuals' awareness of available options; in other circumstances, they produce their information.
Implement Practice and Role Play Techniques − Practice and role play techniques are thought to help improve problem-solving skills. Man becomes flawless via practice, and individuals who engage in frequent practice can propose answers to various difficulties. Analytical, technical, logical, methodical, mechanical, procedural, and so on are examples.
Examine how other people solve problems − Observing is a vital method of learning and thoroughly comprehending concepts and elements. It applies to all regions and fields, and this strategy significantly improves problem-solving abilities.
Problem-solving skills are cognitive processes that aim to solve a problem. As we are exposed to various situations with novel problems every second day, many factors prevent a person from finding a solution. The factors that act as hindrances are mental set, functional fixedness, irrelevant information, insight, and resources available. Nevertheless, on the other hand, the facilitating factors are motivation, perception, self-efficacy, and teamwork skills. Even though there are some common factors, due to individual differences, factors might vary in intensity or their presence or absence. Problem-solving skills are very much needed in every stage of life, and these factors can be controlled to facilitate problem-solving skills.
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