The Dynamics of Working Memory Load in Insight Problem Solving

This paper describes the possible methodological techniques of evaluation of the problem solving process as the main task by a secondary probe task. We propose a method of estimation of the microdynamics of thought processes via changes in the dynamics of working memory load in problem solving by a probe monitor. The results of assessment of the dynamics of working memory load in insight and algorithmized problem solving via a two-alternative choice task are shown. There are significant differences between the dynamics of working memory load in insight and algorithmized problem solving in the last stages, which confirm the hypothesis of the specificity of insight problem solving processes. The results reveal significant dynamics of working memory load in algorithmized problem solving, but not in insight problem solving, during selection of one of the two alternatives.