Misleading intuition in algorithmic problem solving

Authors:
David Ginat
Affiliations:
CS Group, Science Education Department, Tel-Aviv University, Israel
Venue:
Proceedings of the thirty-second SIGCSE technical symposium on Computer Science Education
Year:
2001

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Abstract

This paper presents a study of misleading intuition in the domain of algorithmic problem solving. I noticed incorrect intuitive solutions to challenging algorithmic problems and interviewed students on their solutions. The students arrived at an erroneous conviction rather rapidly and demonstrated overconfidence and reinforcement of their incorrect ideas when presented with new evidence. I present two colorful and unfamiliar algorithmic challenges posed to the students, describe and discuss my experience, and offer some suggestions for reducing the effect of misleading intuition.