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A concept is a category of objects, events or ideas that share similar characteristics; this allows for generalization and distinction. (Eg. Car – Boat – Plane are all separate concepts but can be generalized under “transportation” ). Our concepts are shaped by the world and reflects what is important to a people.

The Inuit have many words to describe types of snow whereas we only have a few. Western culture has many words to identify types of automobiles.

Deductive Reasoning: using information to form conclusions, beginning with general principles and apply them to specific situations.

Eg. Humans need are to live (Premise)

I am human. (Premise)

I need air to live. (Conclusion)

Inductive Reasoning: using specific information to form general conclusions. It does not always lead to sound conclusions.

Eg. I enjoyed director Steven Spielberg’s last movie. (Premise)

This movie is directed by Steven Spielberg. (Premise)

I will enjoy this movie. (Conclusion)

Dialectical Reasoning: forming a conclusion by joining two opposite views to show that information is compatible. There is often more than one solution.

Eg. Viewing political debates.

Problem Solving The ability to deal with new situations for which

there is not set or established response.

There are 4 steps involved in problem solving.

Defining the problem

Developing a strategy to resolve the problem

Carrying out the strategy

Determining if you are using the right strategy and if it is working.

Strategies Trial and Error

Trying different approaches until you find the one that works.

Hypothesis Testing

Testing a hypothesis and measuring its success

Rule of Thumb

Using a general rule based on past experiences or acquired knowledge

Insight

Having a new idea or suddenly gaining understanding of how something should work; often proceeded by a period of time of thinking over the problem.

4 Stages to Decision Making1. Determine alternatives: Begin with as many

possibilities as you can think of.

2. Evaluate alternatives: Ask what information is available for each option? How will each help me achieve my goal? What are the advantages or disadvantage?

3. Make a decision: Choose the best option that provides the greatest advantage with the least costs

4. Act: Act on the option you have chosen, knowing you have done everything you could to make the best decision. Be prepared to deal with any problems that may arise and continue on the course of action you have chosen and make any changes necessary.

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Questions 1, 2, 4, 6, 7