Thinking, problem solving, and intelligence
Cognition includes how we form concepts, solve problems, and make decisions, and how psychologists try to measure intelligence.
Concepts and problem solving
Concepts group similar things, often around a prototype, the best example (a robin for 'bird'). Algorithms are step-by-step procedures that guarantee a solution; heuristics are mental shortcuts that are fast but can fail. A mental set is a tendency to keep using approaches that worked before, even when better ones exist; functional fixedness is seeing objects only in their usual use.
Biases in decision making
The availability heuristic judges likelihood by how easily examples come to mind. The representativeness heuristic judges by similarity to a stereotype. Confirmation bias seeks information that supports existing beliefs. Hindsight bias is the feeling, after the fact, that we 'knew it all along'.
Intelligence
Charles Spearman proposed a general intelligence factor, g. Howard Gardner proposed multiple intelligences, such as linguistic, musical, and interpersonal. Robert Sternberg's triarchic theory includes analytical, creative, and practical intelligence. IQ tests are standardised so that the average score is 100, and good tests must be reliable and valid.
Flashcard
A mental shortcut for judgments and problem solving
Check your understanding
Needing a screwdriver, you fail to think of using a coin to turn the screw. This illustrates: