Problem solving under different types of working memory load

Abstract

Numerous studies of insight problem solving are focused on working memory system. We obtained contradictory data about how working memory is involved in the insight process. We argue that measuring the dynamics of working memory over the course of problem solving can provide a more refned view regarding the process as a whole and explain the existing controversies. Our study employed a dual task paradigm to track the dynamics of working memory load during problem solving. We varied the complexity of the probe-task and the problem type (insight and algorithmized). The results indicated that the dynamics of working memory load in insight problems differ from those in algorithmized problems. The complexity of the probe-task affects the total reaction times in both types of problem solving. We found that the working memory load in algorithmized problems increases from stage to stage due to the allocation of cognitive resources to interim calculations. The nature of the dynamics of working memory load in insight problems remains debatable. We can claim that insight problem solving places demands on working memory during the entire problem solving process and that the central executive system plays an important role just prior to solution.