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Complex Problem Solving: What It Is and What It Is Not.

Dietrich Dörner1, Joachim Funke2

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Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

This study revisits the definition of complex problems in psychological research. It emphasizes understanding the core features that define complex problem-solving over solely focusing on psychometric assessment methods.

Keywords:
MicroDYNassessmentcomplex problem solvingdefinitionvalidity

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Area of Science:

  • Cognitive Psychology
  • Psychological Assessment
  • Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

  • Computer-simulated scenarios have been utilized in problem-solving research for over four decades.
  • Research focus has shifted from simple to complex, real-world problem scenarios.
  • Discussions on assessing complex problem-solving have prioritized psychometric properties over content validity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To re-center the discussion on the content validity of complex problem-solving assessments.
  • To identify and define the essential features characterizing complex problems.
  • To guide future research in developing more content-valid measures of complex problem-solving.

Main Methods:

  • Conceptual analysis of existing literature on complex problem-solving.
  • Theoretical framework development to delineate key features of complex problems.
  • Review of assessment methodologies in computer-simulated problem-solving environments.

Main Results:

  • Identified a gap in research that overemphasizes psychometric reliability at the expense of content validity.
  • Proposed a framework for understanding the defining characteristics of complex problems.
  • Highlighted the need for assessment tools that accurately reflect the nature of complex problem-solving.

Conclusions:

  • Content validity is crucial for accurately assessing complex problem-solving skills.
  • Future research should prioritize defining and measuring the inherent features of complex problems.
  • A balanced approach considering both psychometric properties and content validity is essential for advancing the field.