Problem solving carries a major risk of escalating the problem on focus. It is possible that a novice may be able to solve a problem but chances of an escalation make problem solving by a novice perilous. In psychology, problem solving is a phenomenon that entails arriving at solutions by analyzing the problem, inter alia through a discovery process (Cummins, 2013). For a start, problem solving requires an element of training in order to understand how to investigate the problem and come up with a solution (Van Aken & Berends, 2018). However, even the best-trained problem solver can still be a novice. Expertise in problem solving requires a combination of intuition and experience (Gilhooly, 2016). The expert problem solver understands both the theory and practice of problem solving, a combination that creates an ability to solve problems in the right way, which contemporaneously anticipating and effectively managing contingencies.
Characteristics of a Problem-solving Expert
Becoming an expert problem solver entails the gradual development of a specialized set of skills emanating from a combination training and experience. For a start, an expert problem solver has patience (Cummins, 2013). The first step in problem solving is calling a problem. The lack of patience will trigger the calling of a problem even when there is none, or before the situation degenerates into a problem. Patience is also necessary to ensure that the problem solver does not initiate half-baked solutions, thus escalating the problem. The second prerequisite of a problem solver is the ability to ask the right questions to the right individuals. (Cummins, 2013) Largely, problem solving involves gaining a comprehensive understanding of the problem. On the other hand, problem solving is a time-sensitive process. The making of a comprehensive yet timesaving inquiry requires an ability to ask the right questions to the right people.
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The third important prerequisite of an expert problem solver is the cognitive phenomenon of automaticity. The phenomenon of automaticity entails the ability of the problem solver to avoid being obsequious to due process (Moran, 2016). A novice relies on due process to solve problems without unduly escalating them. In some cases, due process not only wastes time but also runs into impossibilities. An expert will be able to avoid the rigorous adherence to due procedure, yet undertake problem solving in the right manner. Another important characteristic of the expert problem solver is the ability to see the larger picture and minute details contemporaneously (Moran, 2016). A novice may focus on minute details and lose sight of the larger picture and vice versa. However, the expert will constantly self-evaluate in order to ensure simultaneous focus on both the smaller and larger picture.
Another important prerequisite of an expert problem solver is multiplicity of strategies. Problem solving happens in real life where events never follow any set script. A specific strategy that is effective in one problem may fail in a different problem or even have a problem escalating effect. In some cases, no single strategy can solve the problem, as different strategies are required for the different aspects of the problem. The expert problem solver will not only have several strategies but also know which strategy to apply under specific circumstances. Finally, an expert problem solver is adept at monitoring and evaluating the problem-solving process (Loksa et al., 2016). As indicated above, reality never follows a set script. Well-planned strategies may fail while contingencies may arise and derail the solving of a problem. An expert problem solver prepares a comprehensive plan, complete with a monitoring and evaluation strategy. The problem solver then uses the plan in solving the problem, while applying all the prerequisites outlined above.
How to Gain Expert Solving Skills
Acquisition of expertise requires a combination of training, continuous training, and experience. For a start, actual training, including academic training is essential to the acquisition of expert problem solving (Van Aken & Berends, 2018). Most problems that need solving have a human component. It is necessary to have an understanding of human psychology such as the inner workings of the human mind and human behavior to be an expert problem solver. The basic steps in effective problem solving is also a component of the formal training necessary to be a problem solver. Further to formal training, nurturing talent and intuition is necessary for expertise in problem solving (Gilhooly, 2016). Natural abilities such as patience and resilience need honing to create an expert problem solver. Academic training will only create a problem-solving novice who will need to hone a set of natural talents and abilities in order to become an expert.
Finally but most importantly, experience is necessary for the acquisition of the expert problem-solving characteristics outlined above. Even the honing of natural talents and intuition requires experience (Van Aken & Berends, 2018). A well-trained problem solver needs time to observe an expert problem solver in action in order to develop practical problem-solving skills. After observation, the novice can generate further experience through supervised problem-solving assignments. Failure and setbacks in problem solving are essential aspects of gaining the experience necessary to hone comprehensive skills. It is only after gaining the necessary experience that the trained novice metamorphoses into an expert problem solver.
Conclusion
It is definitively clear from the analysis above that there is a clear distinction between a novice and expert in problem solving. The process of solving problems involves the ability to call a problem, and comprehensively investigate the said problem. After investigation, the second component of the process involves developing an effective plan for the solution of the problem then applying that plan. Monitoring and evaluation is an invaluable aspect of the problem-solving plan. An expert problem solver requires the characteristics necessary to undertake all the above. To gain the said prerequisites, a combination of training, the honing of talents and intuition and the acquisition of experience is necessary.
References
Cummins, D. (2013). How to Solve Problems Like an Expert. Psychology Today . Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/good-thinking/201309/how-solve-problems-expert
Gilhooly, K. J. (2016). Incubation and intuition in creative problem solving. Frontiers in psychology , 7 , 1076.
Loksa, D., Ko, A. J., Jernigan, W., Oleson, A., Mendez, C. J., & Burnett, M. M. (2016, May). Programming, problem solving, and self-awareness: effects of explicit guidance. In Proceedings of the 2016 CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems (pp. 1449-1461). ACM.
Moran, A. P. (2016). The Psychology of Concentration in Sport Performers: A Cognitive Analysis . New York: Psychology Press.
Van Aken, J. E., & Berends, H. (2018). Problem solving in organizations . Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press.
