Friday, November 12, 2010
Algorithms and Heiristics
When reading the chapter on problem solving I began to thing about the way that I usually solve problems. I usually use algorithms even if it does mean that I have to do more work. I like to see how the answer is correct and what were the steps in finding the right answer. Could a person's tendency to use an algorithm or heuristic be genetic? Is is recognizable that family members usually solve problems in similar ways? I know from my own experience that my dad and I like to solve problems by laying out all of the information, sorting through what we need and don't need, then use some sort of equation to get the answer. Is this genetic, environmental, or just coincidental?
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I think you make a good point, that solving algorithms is hereditary. I also solve them even when I do not have to and I noticed that my mom and dad both do this without even thinking about it, so I would have to agree with you.
ReplyDeleteWhen reading this chapter I never even considered the fact that either of these problem solving strategies could be inherited or genetic but I think you make a really good point. While my mom often uses algorithms and is really methodical about the way she solves a problem, my dad is the complete opposite and just wants to use the quickest method to solve a problem and I definetly inherit that from him. However, this could also show evidence that algorithms and heuristics are just learned behavior as well.
ReplyDeleteIn my house, my mom thinks things through very thoroughly but her boyfriend thinks of a quick decision that is efficient. I always used to think about things a lot, until being around him made me learn to think like him. However, I still find myself thinking like my mother because I feel as if I have inherited the way she thinks about things which is hard to get rid of.
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