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Full-Text Articles in Cognitive Psychology
Analysis Of Minimal Complex Systems And Complex Problem Solving Require Different Forms Of Causal Cognition, Joachim Funke
Analysis Of Minimal Complex Systems And Complex Problem Solving Require Different Forms Of Causal Cognition, Joachim Funke
Joachim Funke
In the last 20 years, a stream of research emerged under the label of „complex problem solving“ (CPS). This research was intended to describe the way people deal with complex, dynamic, and intransparent situations. Complex computer-simulated scenarios were as stimulus material in psychological experiments. This line of research lead to subtle insights into the way how people deal with complexity and uncertainty. Besides these knowledge-rich, realistic, intransparent, complex, dynamic scenarios with many variables, a second line of research used more simple, knowledge-lean scenarios with a low number of variables („minimal complex systems“, MCS) that have been proposed recently in problem-solving …
Problem Solving: What Are The Important Questions?, Joachim Funke
Problem Solving: What Are The Important Questions?, Joachim Funke
Joachim Funke
Problem solving research is in need for re-thinking main questions. The purpose of this paper is a stock-taking of some of the identified problems, to discuss potential remedies for them, and to look for future perspectives. I see three areas for discussion: (1) What are the phenomena to be explained? (2) What methods should be used? What methodology is appropriate to the subject? (3) What is the progress in theory since the legendary work from Newell and Simon (1972)? What can we expect from new data sources? How can we relate data to theoretical assumptions?
Dealing With The Uncertainties Of Climate Engineering: Warnings From A Psychological Complex Problem Solving Perspective, Dorothee Amelung, Joachim Funke
Dealing With The Uncertainties Of Climate Engineering: Warnings From A Psychological Complex Problem Solving Perspective, Dorothee Amelung, Joachim Funke
Joachim Funke
Decision-makers in the context of climate politics are confronted with considerable uncertainties due to the complexities inherent in the relevant natural and social systems. Nonetheless, pressure on decision-makers to find solutions to dangerous climate change is rising due to the inertia in the climate system. Considering these pressures, technological options (climate engineering) have been proposed to counteract the effects of climatic change. However, introducing options that bear their own scientific uncertainties means further adding to the complexity of the situation. By adopting the psychological perspective of complex problem solving research, we analyze one frequently neglected source of uncertainty with regard …
Perspectives On Problem Solving In Educational Assessment: Analytical, Interactive, And Collaborative Problem Solving, Samuel Greiff, Daniel V. Holt, Joachim Funke
Perspectives On Problem Solving In Educational Assessment: Analytical, Interactive, And Collaborative Problem Solving, Samuel Greiff, Daniel V. Holt, Joachim Funke
Joachim Funke
Problem solving has received broad public interest as an important competency in modern societies. In educational large-scale assessments paper-pencil based analytical problem solving was included first (e.g., Programme for International Student Assessment, PISA 2003). With growing interest in more complex situations, the focus has shifted to interactive problem solving (e.g., PISA 2012) requiring identification and control of complex systems. In the future, collaborative problem solving represents the next step in assessing problem solving ability (e.g., PISA 2015). This paper describes these different approaches to assessing problem solving ability in large-scale assessments considering theoretical questions as well as assessment issues. For …
A Decomposition Approach For A New Test-Scenario In Complex Problem Solving, Michael Engelhart, Joachim Funke, Sebastian Sager
A Decomposition Approach For A New Test-Scenario In Complex Problem Solving, Michael Engelhart, Joachim Funke, Sebastian Sager
Joachim Funke
Over the last years, psychological research has increasingly used computer-supported tests, especially in the analysis of complex human decision making and problem solving. The approach is to use computer-based test scenarios and to evaluate the performance of participants and correlate it to certain attributes, such as the participant's capacity to regulate emotions. However, two important questions can only be answered with the help of modern optimization methodology. The first one considers an analysis of the exact situations and decisions that led to a bad or good overall performance of test persons. The second important question concerns performance, as the choices …
Complex Problem Solving, Joachim Funke
Complex Problem Solving, Joachim Funke
Joachim Funke
Complex problem solving takes place for reducing the barrier between a given start state and an intended goal state with the help of cognitive activities and behavior. Start state, intended goal state, and barriers prove complexity, change dynamically over time, and can be partially intransparent. In contrast to solving simple problems, with complex problems at the beginning of a problem solution the exact features of the start state, of the intended goal state, and of the barriers are unknown. Complex problem solving expects the efficient interaction between the problem-solving person and situational conditions that depend on the task. It demands …
Complex Problem Solving: More Than Reasoning?, Sascha Wüstenberg, Samuel Greiff, Joachim Funke
Complex Problem Solving: More Than Reasoning?, Sascha Wüstenberg, Samuel Greiff, Joachim Funke
Joachim Funke
This study investigates the internal structure and construct validity of Complex Problem Solving (CPS), which is measured by a Multiple-Item-Approach. It is tested, if (a) three facets of CPS – rule identification (adequateness of strategies), rule knowledge (generated knowledge) and rule application (ability to control a system) – can be empirically distinguished, how (b) reasoning is related to these CPS-facets and if (c) CPS shows incremental validity in predicting school grade point average (GPA) beyond reasoning. N=222 university students completed MicroDYN, a computer-based CPS test and Ravens Advanced Progressive Matrices. Analysis including structural equation models showed that a 2-dimensionsal model …
Dynamic Problem Solving: A New Assessment Perspective, Samuel Greiff, Sascha Wüstenberg, Joachim Funke
Dynamic Problem Solving: A New Assessment Perspective, Samuel Greiff, Sascha Wüstenberg, Joachim Funke
Joachim Funke
This article addresses two unsolved measurement issues in dynamic problem solving (DPS) research: (a) unsystematic construction of DPS tests making a comparison of results obtained in different studies difficult and (b) use of time-intensive single tasks leading to severe reliability problems. To solve these issues, the MicroDYN approach is presented, which combines (a) the formal framework of linear structural equation models as a systematic way to construct tasks with (b) multiple and independent tasks to increase reliability. Results indicated that the assumed measurement model that comprised three dimensions, information retrieval, model building, and forecasting, fitted the data well (n = …
Measuring Performance In A Complex Problem Solving Task: Reliability And Validity Of The Tailorshop Simulation, Daniel Danner, Dirk Hagemann, Daniel V. Holt, Marieke Hager, Andrea Schankin, Sascha Wüstenberg, Joachim Funke
Measuring Performance In A Complex Problem Solving Task: Reliability And Validity Of The Tailorshop Simulation, Daniel Danner, Dirk Hagemann, Daniel V. Holt, Marieke Hager, Andrea Schankin, Sascha Wüstenberg, Joachim Funke
Joachim Funke
The Tailorshop simulation is a computer based complex problem solving task in which participants have to lead a fictional company for twelve months. The present study investigated if the performance in the Tailorshop simulation can be measured reliably and validly. The participants were 156 employees from different companies. Structural equation models were used to test tau-congeneric and tau-equivalent measurement models. The results indicate that the trends of the total capital between the second and the twelfth month are reliable measurements. Furthermore, this measure can predict real-life job performance ratings by superiors and is associated with the performance in another complex …
Beyond Iq. A Latent State-Trait Analysis Of General Intelligence, Dynamic Decision Making, And Implicit Learning, Daniel Danner, Dirk Hagemann, Andrea Schankin, Marieke Hager, Joachim Funke
Beyond Iq. A Latent State-Trait Analysis Of General Intelligence, Dynamic Decision Making, And Implicit Learning, Daniel Danner, Dirk Hagemann, Andrea Schankin, Marieke Hager, Joachim Funke
Joachim Funke
The present study investigated cognitive performance measures beyond IQ. In particular, we investigated the psychometric properties of dynamic decision making variables and implicit learning variables and their relation with general intelligence and professional success. N=173 employees from different companies and occupational groups completed two standard intelligence tests, two dynamic decision making tasks, and two implicit learning tasks at two measurement occasions. We used structural equation models to test latent-state-trait measurement models and the relation between constructs. The results suggest that dynamic decision making and implicit learning are substantially related with general intelligence. Furthermore, general intelligence is the best predictor for …
The Challenge Of Complexity For Cognitive Systems, Ute Schmid, Marco Ragni, Cleotilde Gonzalez, Joachim Funke
The Challenge Of Complexity For Cognitive Systems, Ute Schmid, Marco Ragni, Cleotilde Gonzalez, Joachim Funke
Joachim Funke
Complex cognition adresses research on (a) high-level cognitive processes – mainly problem solving, reasoning, and decision making – and their interaction with more basic processes such as perception, learning, motivation and emotion and (b) cognitive processes which take place in a complex, typically dynamic, environment. Our focus is on AI systems and cognitive models dealing with complexity and on psychological findings which can inspire or challenge cognitive systems research. In this overview we first motivate why we have to go beyond models for rather simple cognitive processes and reductionist experiments. Afterwards, we give a characterization of complexity from our perspective. …
Optimization As An Analysis Tool For Human Complex Decision Making, Sebastian Sager, Carola M. Barth, Holger Diedam, Michael Engelhart, Joachim Funke
Optimization As An Analysis Tool For Human Complex Decision Making, Sebastian Sager, Carola M. Barth, Holger Diedam, Michael Engelhart, Joachim Funke
Joachim Funke
We present a problem class of mixed-integer nonlinear programs (MINLPs) with nonconvex continuous relaxations which stem from economic test scenarios that are used in the analysis of human complex problem solving. In a round-based scenario participants hold an executive function. A posteriori a performance indicator is calculated and correlated to personal measures such as intelligence, working memory, or emotion regulation. Altogether, we investigate 2088 optimization problems that differ in size and initial conditions, based on real-world experimental data from 12 rounds of 174 participants. The goals are twofold. First, from the optimal solutions we gain additional insight into a complex …
Complex Problem Solving: A Case For Complex Cognition?, Joachim Funke
Complex Problem Solving: A Case For Complex Cognition?, Joachim Funke
Joachim Funke
Complex problem solving (CPS) emerged in the last 30 years in Europe as a new part of the psychology of thinking and problem solving. This paper introduces into the field and provides a personal view. Also, related concepts like macrocognition or operative intelligence will be explained in this context. Two examples for the assessment of CPS, Tailorshop and MicroDYN, are presented to illustrate the concept by means of their measurement devices. Also, the relation of complex cognition and emotion in the CPS context is discussed. The question if CPS requires complex cognition is answered with a tentative “yes.”
Negative Affective Environments Improve Complex Solving Performance, Carola M. Barth, Joachim Funke
Negative Affective Environments Improve Complex Solving Performance, Carola M. Barth, Joachim Funke
Joachim Funke
Based on recent affect-cognition theories (Bless et al., 1996; Fiedler, 2001; Sinclair, 1988), the present study predicts and shows a differentiated influence of nice and nasty environments on complex problem solving (CPS). Environments were constructed by manipulating the target value ‘capital’ of a complex scenario: Participants in the nice environment (N = 42) easily raised the capital and received positive feedback, whereas those in the nasty environment (N = 42) hardly enhanced the capital and got negative feedback. The results showed that nasty environments increased negative and decreased positive affect. The reverse was true for nice environments. Furthermore, nasty environments …
You Cannot Have Your Cake And Eat It, Too: How Induced Goal Conflicts Affect Complex Problem Solving, Joachim Funke, Christine Blech
You Cannot Have Your Cake And Eat It, Too: How Induced Goal Conflicts Affect Complex Problem Solving, Joachim Funke, Christine Blech
Joachim Funke
Managing multiple and conflicting goals is a demand typical to both everyday life and complex coordination tasks. Two experiments (N = 111) investigated how goal conflicts affect motivation and cognition in a complex problemsolving paradigm. In Experiment 1, participants dealt with a game-like computer simulation involving a predefined goal relation: Parallel goals were independent, mutually facilitating, or interfering with one another. As expected, goal conflicts entailed lowered motivation and wellbeing. Participants' understanding of causal effects within the simulation was impaired, too. Behavioral measures of subjects' interventions support the idea of adaptive, self-regulatory processes: reduced action with growing awareness of the …
Complex Problem Solving: The European Perspective - 10 Years After, Joachim Funke, Peter A. Frensch
Complex Problem Solving: The European Perspective - 10 Years After, Joachim Funke, Peter A. Frensch
Joachim Funke
Complex Problem Solving (CPS) is a term that was introduced about 30 years ago in Germany by Dietrich Dörner. This movement established not only a new type of problem to be studied, a type that differed from “simple” problem solving in terms of complexity, temporal dynamics, and other attributes, but also a new method, namely, the use of computer-simulated microworlds. In this chapter, we focus on some of the issues that have been at the center of attention in the complex problem solving literature during the last years. The chapter is divided into four parts. In the first part, we …
Complex Problem Solving And Intelligence: Empirical Relation And Causal Direction, Dorit Wenke, Peter A. Frensch, Joachim Funke
Complex Problem Solving And Intelligence: Empirical Relation And Causal Direction, Dorit Wenke, Peter A. Frensch, Joachim Funke
Joachim Funke
At least two theoretical positions strongly suggest that intelligence and problem solving are related. First, the ability to solve problems features prominent in almost every definition of human “intelligence;” thus, problem-solving capacity is viewed as one component of intelligence. Second, intelligence is often assumed to be a predictor of problem-solving ability. Our main goal in this chapter is to review to what extent the ability to solve complex, rather than simple laboratory, problems is indeed tied, empirically, to intelligence, and, which causal direction holds between the two concepts. The chapter is divided into three main sections. In the first section, …
The Role Of Emotions In Complex Problem-Solving, Joachim Funke, Daniel Wagener, Miriam Spering
The Role Of Emotions In Complex Problem-Solving, Joachim Funke, Daniel Wagener, Miriam Spering
Joachim Funke
The assumption that positive affect leads to a better performance in various cognitive tasks has become well established. We investigate whether positive and negative emotions influence performance and strategies in complex problem solving. 74 male and female university students were tested in an experiment, using feedback-induced emotions and a computer-simulated scenario. Contrary to what has been expected, emotions did not affect success in scenario control. However, participants with negative emotions did show more information-oriented strategies in the scenario. We further tested whether control beliefs as a trait influence scenario control and moderate the relation between emotions and complex problem solving. …
Dynamic Systems As Tools For Analysing Human Judgement, Joachim Funke
Dynamic Systems As Tools For Analysing Human Judgement, Joachim Funke
Joachim Funke
With the advent of computers in the experimental labs, dynamic systems have become a new tool for research on problem solving and decision making. A short review on this research is given and the main features of these systems (connectivity and dynamics) are illustrated. To allow systematic approaches to the influential variables in this area, two formal frameworks (linear structural equations and finite state automata) are presented. Besides the formal background, it is shown how the task demands of system identification and system control can be realized in these environments and how psychometrically acceptable dependent variables can be derived.
Experimental Research On Complex Problem Solving, Joachim Funke
Experimental Research On Complex Problem Solving, Joachim Funke
Joachim Funke
(from the chapter) pros and cons of experimental research [a critique of the analytical approach, alternatives to ANOVA techniques, features of the experimental approach] / a taxonomy of variables that affect complex problem solving / experimental research on complex problem solving [studies on person factors, studies on situation factors, studies on system factors, studies on interaction effects]
Finite State Automata: Dynamic Task Environments In Problem Solving Research, Axel Buchner, Joachim Funke
Finite State Automata: Dynamic Task Environments In Problem Solving Research, Axel Buchner, Joachim Funke
Joachim Funke
This paper presents a new research paradigm for analysing human learning in dynamic task environments based on the theory of finite-state automata. Some of the advantages of the approach are outlined. (1) It is possible to design classes of formally well-described dynamic task environments instead of idiosyncratic microworlds that are difficult if not impossible to compare. (2) The approach suggests assumptions about the mental representation of a discrete dynamic system. (3) The finite-state automata formalism suggests systematic and appropriate diagnostic procedures. (4) Using finite-state automata to design dynamic task environments, one does not have to give up the "ecological validity" …
Microworlds Based On Linear Equation Systems: A New Approach To Complex Problem Solving And Experimental Results, Joachim Funke
Microworlds Based On Linear Equation Systems: A New Approach To Complex Problem Solving And Experimental Results, Joachim Funke
Joachim Funke
The method of computer-simulated scenarios has recently been introduced to study how people solve complex problems. This paper describes a special approach to constructing such microworlds by means of linear structural equation systems. Subjects' task in the experimental situation is to first identify in a knowledge acquisition phase the causal structure of an hitherto unknown system. In a later knowledge application phase they have to control this system with respect to a given goal state. Knowledge that was acquired on the task is assessed both by means of causal diagrams - a method developed within this project and proven to …
Solving Complex Problems: Exploration And Control Of Complex Systems, Joachim Funke
Solving Complex Problems: Exploration And Control Of Complex Systems, Joachim Funke
Joachim Funke
Studying complex problem solving by means of computer-simulated scenarios has become one of the favorite themes of modern theorists in German-speaking countries who are concerned with the psychology of thinking. Following the pioneering work of Dietrich Doerner (University of Bamberg, FRG) in the mid-70s, many new scenarios have been developed and applied in correlational as well as in experimental studies (for a review see Funke, 1988). Instead of studying problem-solving behavior in restricted situations (like the "Tower of Hanoi" or "Cannibals and Missionaries"; cf. Greeno, 1974; Jeffries, Polson, & Razran, 1977), the new approach focuses on semantically rich domains that …