Problem-Solving and Such

In figure-and-ground perception, the _____________ is what is focused on, while the _____________ is what is blurry and ignored.

• ground; figure

• figure; ground

• ground; background

• figure; gestalt

The inability to see changes in our environment when our attention is directed elsewhere is known as:

• misdirection

• monocular cues

• cocktail party effect

• change blindness

A/an ______________ approach to problem-solving is a step-by-step procedure for performing a task or solving a problem.

• algorithm

• trial and error

• executive function

• accommodation

When people continue to invest time and money into a failed project because they have already invested so much, they are likely falling prey to what cognitive bias?

• sunk cost fallacy

• gambler's fallacy

• priming

• the availability heuristic

Explain the concept of a "heuristic" in one complete sentence.

Which of the following best describes the difference between a heuristic and an algorithm?

• A heuristic is always guaranteed to find the best solution, while an algorithm may not.
• An algorithm is a flexible approach that can adapt to different kinds of problems, whereas a heuristic is rigid.

• Heuristics are only used in computer programming, while algorithms are used in everyday decision-making.
• A heuristic is generally quicker than an algorithm, but it is also less rigorous and more susceptible to oversights.

This type of thought is used when a question has only one correct answer.

• divergent thinking

• a mental set

• convergent thinking

• priming

The process of changing a schema in order to incorporate new or contradictory information:

• problem-solving

• functional fixedness

• accommodation

• assimilation

The difference between a mental set and a schema is best described as:

• A mental set is a cognitive framework; a schema is a problem-solving strategy.
• A mental set is a type of memory; a schema is a method for emotional regulation.
• A mental set is a problem-solving strategy; a schema is a cognitive framework for organizing knowledge.
• A mental set is a fixed mindset; a schema is a flexible approach to learning.

In terms of conceptual thought, a prototype is best described as:

• a mental grouping of similar objects

• a mental representation of connected ideas

• a set of cognitive ideas that help us coordinate thoughts

• a mental image of the best example of a specific concept or category