Problem solving with computers.

Problem solving with computers.

  • Results means the outcome or the completed computer-assisted answer.
  • Program means the set of instructions that make up the solution after they have been coded into a particular computer language.
  • Computers are built to deal with algorithmic solutions, which are often difficult or very time consuming for humans.
  • People are better than computers at developing heuristic solutions. Solving a complicated calculus problem or alphabetizing 10,000 names is an easy task for the computer, but the problem of how to throw a ball or how to speak English is not.
  • The difficulty lies in the programming.
  • How can problems such as how to throw a ball or speak English be solved in a set of steps that the computer can understand?
  • The field of computers that deals with heuristic types of problems is called artificial intelligence. 
  • Artificial intelligence enables a computer to do things like build its own knowledge bank and speak in a human language.
  • As a result, the computer’s problem-solving abilities are similar to those of a human being. Artificial intelligence is an expanding computer field, especially with the increased use of Robotics.
  • Until computers can be built to think like humans, people will process most heuristic solutions and computers will process many algorithmic solutions.
  • Therefore, this book will deal only with algorithmic solutions.
  • Heuristic problem solving can help determine alternative solutions. However, for computer use, they must be transformed into an algorithmic format.

Difficulties with Problem Solving.

  • People have many problems with problem solving. Some have not been taught how to solve problems.
  • Others are afraid to make a decision for fear it will be the wrong one.
  • Often, when people go through the problem-solving process, they complete one or more of the steps inadequately.
  • They may not define the problem correctly or may not generate a sufficient list of alternatives.
  • When choosing the best alternative, they may eliminate good alternatives or list the pros and cons too hastily.
  • They may not use a logical sequence of steps in their solution, or they may focus on details before the framework for the solution is in place.
  • Finally, they may incorrectly or haphazardly evaluate the solution. The problem solving process is not easy.
  • It takes practice and time to perfect, but in the long run the process proves to be of great benefit.
  • When solving problems on the computer, one of the most difficult tasks for the problem solver is writing the instructions.
  • Take the task of deciding which number is the largest from a group of three numbers. Almost anyone can immediately tell which is the largest, but many cannot explain the steps they followed to arrive at it. 
  • Most people will say, “I can’t explain how I know, I just know it!” This explanation is not good enough for the computer.
  • The computer is a tool that will perform only tasks that the user can explain.
  • The computer has a specific system of communication that programmers and users must learn.
  • This system demands that no step in the solution to a problem be left unstated and that all steps be in the proper order.
  • You must assume the computer knows nothing except what you tell it and think of it as an ignorant but efficient aid to problem solving.  

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