A Model of Functional Knowledge and Insight.

In this study a distinction is made between routine, semiroutine, and nonroutine problems based on the problem solver's knowledge. Routine problems are solved by applying a known procedure, semiroutine problems require planning that uses functional knowledge, and nonroutine problems require generation of new functional knowledge. Nonroutine problem solving has been simulated in which functional knowledge is derived from properties of objects that are available in the situation. In an experiment, knowledge was provided about functional relations of components of a device; this facilitated inference of operating procedures, in contrast to knowledge about the status of the individual components, which was ineffective. (Author/RH)