Effect of Training in Components of Complex Problems on Group Problem-Solving Efficiency under Constrained Communication

Abstract
270 Ss participated in a three-member group problem-solving game in which group members attempted to develop a system whereby their combined contributions would equal an announced numerical target in a single trial. Targets were designated Fixed or Moving in two distinct treatments. Communication between group members was constrained. The target numbers were grouped into 4 sets in an ascending order of difficulty. Results indicated that training in the component parts of complex problems failed to increase significantly Ss' ability to develop problem-solving systems.