The Effects of Informational Complexity and Working Memory on Problem-Solving Efficiency

    Authors

    B. Hoffman; M. T. McCrudden; G. Schraw;K. Hartley

    Comments

    Authors: contact us about adding a copy of your work at STARS@ucf.edu

    Abstract

    This study investigated the influence of informational complexity and working memory capacity oil problem-solving efficiency, We examined two predictions of the situational efficiency hypothesis, which states efficiency of problem solving varies as a function of situational constraints. One prediction is that informational complexity affects problem-solving efficiency. A second prediction is that working memory capacity affects problem-solving efficiency. Students completed a working memory task and solved abstract and concrete syllogisms. Participants solved abstract syllogisms more accurately than concrete syllogisms and spent more time solving abstract syllogisms. Thus participants demonstrated greater problem-solving efficiency when solving concrete syllogisms. Results indicate that there is a trade-off between problem-solving accuracy and problem-solving time when information differs with respect to informational complexity, a phenomenon we refer to as the efficiency paradox. Working memory capacity did not affect accuracy or efficiency. The results support the conclusion that problem-solving efficiency is situational and a function of the complexity of information. Educational implications and directions for future research are suggested.

    Journal Title

    Asia Pacific Education Review

    Volume

    9

    Issue/Number

    4

    Publication Date

    1-1-2008

    Document Type

    Article

    First Page

    464

    Last Page

    +

    WOS Identifier

    WOS:000262716200006

    ISSN

    1598-1037

    Share

    COinS