Restructuring revisited

TLDR

Problem‑solving theories emphasize either search (information processing) or restructuring (Gestalt), both key aspects of human cognition. The paper proposes a theory that frames restructuring and insight within information‑processing concepts. Restructuring is defined as a change in mental representation that alters operator applicability, and insight arises when this restructuring brings the goal state within the mental look‑ahead horizon.

Abstract

The central concept of the information processing theory of problem solving is search. In contrast, the central concept of the Gestalt theory of problem solving is restructuring. Both concepts express important aspects of human thinking. A theory is presented which interprets restructuring and the related concept of insight in information processing terms. It is hypothesised that restructuring is a change in mental representation which affects the applicability of problem solving operators. Insight is hypothesized to occur when restructuring of the search space brings the goal state within the horizon of mental look‐ahead.