Abstract:
Arising from contemporary theory on problem-solving, this study investigated the performance of a sample of Canadian and Australian children on a well-structured problem-solving task. The problem, a version of a river-crossing, problem, was pre- sented in two formats. The first format was designed for a micro- computer presentation and the second was in a 'hands-on' format. the problem was also presented at two levels of difficulty which allowed an investigation of the interaction between mode of pres- entation, difficulty, experience and age. By an examination of individual performance protocols in terms of legal and illegal moves, an attempt was made to differentiate types of problem- solvers and relate them to measured intelligence. Implications for classroom practices were discussed.