Problem Solving Style : A New Approach to Understanding and Using Individual Differences

Problem Solving Style : A New Approach to Understanding and Using Individual Differences

This paper describes problem solving styles, and proposes a three-dimensional model for defining and assessing those style preferences. The model, which builds on the literature from learning styles, cognitive styles, personality type, and from theory and research on Creative Problem Solving, includes Orientation to Change (with the Explorer and Developer styles), Manner of Processing (with External and Internal styles), and Ways of Deciding (with Person and Task styles). The article also describes a practical instrument, "VIEW; An Assessment of Problem solving Style," for assessing those dimensions, and summarizes current psychometric evidence supporting VIEW's reliability and applications. We also identify several implications of the theory and instrument for research and practice.