Functional Values as AIDS and Distractors in Problem Solving
The two-string problem (Maier, 1931) was used to investigate the effect of functional values of objects on problem solving. This problem can be used to test the cause-and-effect aspect of functional values since it has a variety of solution types, ranging from the obvious to the innovative. 4 objects were investigated under 3 conditions: all 4 presented; 1 object presented; 4 presented along with 10 others. The concept of functional values was supported for certain types of solutions in that the tools available influenced the type of solution generated. However, it could not account for a high number of innovative solutions utilizing an object which had a functional value unrelated to the problem. The various objects also acquired new functions and meanings as solution-types were discovered. Thus two types of problem solving are suggested: one in which the solution reached gives new meanings to previous experiences; the other in which old meanings influence subsequent solutions. The latter process was found to inhibit the former.