Distributed cognition and insight problem solving

Problem solving from a distributed cognitive system perspective is an emergent product of the strategic and opportunistic manipulation of artefacts populating a physical space. In the present study, insight problem solving was investigated with matchstick algebra problems. These problems are false equations expressed with Roman numerals transformed into true equations by moving one matchstick. Participants were split in two groups. In the first, the paper group, they examined a static two-dimensional representation of the false algebraic expression and told the experimenter which matchstick should be moved. The non-interactive procedure was similar to the one employed in Knoblich, Ohlsson, Haider, and Rhenius (1999). In the second group, the interactive group, participants manipulated a concrete three-dimensional representation of the false equation. Success rates in the paper group for different problem types closely replicated the pattern of data reported in Knoblich et al. In turn, participants in the interactive group were significantly more likely to achieve insight. Problem solving success in the paper group was best predicted by performance on a numeracy test, whereas in the interactive group, it was best predicted by performance on a visuo-spatial reasoning test. Different types of resources and skills were involved in the different versions of the task. Implications for process models of problem solving are discussed.