Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around identifying a suitable problem to assess and compare the problem-solving skills of physics students versus non-science majors. The focus is on finding a problem that does not rely on math or physics knowledge but still effectively tests problem-solving abilities.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Debate/contested
- Conceptual clarification
Main Points Raised
- One participant suggests finding a problem that tests problem-solving skills without being a math or physics problem.
- Another participant proposes using classic experiments on functional fixedness, such as Duncker's candle holder problem or Maier's two-cord problem, as potential tests.
- A different viewpoint mentions using IQ test puzzles that require logic and mental gymnastics, although there is uncertainty about their effectiveness in assessing problem-solving skills without a written thought process.
- One participant reiterates the value of the candle holder problem, particularly if engineering students are included in the comparison.
- Another participant emphasizes the importance of presenting the box with tacks in a way that may influence participants' problem-solving approaches.
- A participant introduces the "cellar problem" as a practical problem-solving puzzle, noting its trick question nature when framed as a math puzzle.
- One participant raises the question of whether an airplane on a treadmill will take off, suggesting it as another potential problem to explore.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express various ideas for potential problems, but there is no consensus on a single approach or problem to use for the assessment. Multiple competing views and suggestions remain unresolved.
Contextual Notes
Some suggestions rely on specific definitions of problem-solving skills and may depend on the context in which the problems are presented. The effectiveness of each proposed problem in assessing the intended skills is not established.