Asking ChatGPT vs Googling: Can AI chatbots boost human creativity?

As more people turn to ChatGPT instead of Google, research shows AI can be a better tool for creative problem-solving – though it still has its limits.

Jaeyeon Chung, Assistant Professor of Business, Rice University • conversation
Nov. 13, 2024 ~7 min

Can you sleep your way to better decision making? Here’s what the science says

The typical advice is to take a break and come back to the problem tomorrow with a fresh start.

Dan Denis, Lecturer in Psychology, University of York • conversation
Nov. 11, 2024 ~7 min


Some vocal learners are really good problem solvers, too

Vocal learning, problem solving, and brain size among some birds may have evolved in tandem, perhaps as a way to increase biological fitness.

Katherine Fenz-Rockefeller • futurity
Sept. 15, 2023 ~6 min

Future engineers need to understand their work's human impact – here's how my classes prepare students to tackle problems like climate change

Solving mathematical equations is only part of the job. Students should be spending more time thinking about the human dimensions of the problems they are trying to solve.

Gordon D. Hoople, Assistant Professor of Engineering, University of San Diego • conversation
Jan. 4, 2022 ~8 min

Being good at maths might help you become great at sports – Emma Raducanu showed us why

A love of mathematics could help sports stars solve problems on court.

Laurence Shaw, Lecturer in Mathematics, Nottingham Trent University • conversation
Sept. 29, 2021 ~7 min

Is gaming good for kids?

Research shows multiple social and cognitive benefits of playing video games.

John Velez, Assistant Professor of Communication Science, Indiana University • conversation
March 8, 2021 ~6 min

How your brain backs off bad solutions to a problem

Avoiding the worst options can be as key to problem solving as finding the best option. New research digs into how the brain knows it's on the wrong track.

Kim Eckart-Washington • futurity
March 5, 2021 ~7 min

Ideas from others may prevent ‘fixation’ on your first solutions

When solving problems, we tend to rely on things that have worked in the past, which psycholgists call "fixation." Other ideas may get you out of the rut.

Jared Wadley-Michigan • futurity
Oct. 14, 2020 ~5 min


Your coping and resilience strategies might need to shift as the COVID-19 crisis continues

As the pandemic drags on, uncertainty and fears about health and safety mix with confusion and challenges tied to re-opening society. You need flexibility when picking your coping strategies.

Steven Jay Lynn, Distinguished Professor of Psychology, Binghamton University, State University of New York • conversation
July 13, 2020 ~7 min

Feeling overwhelmed? Approach coronavirus as a challenge to be met, not a threat to be feared

A global pandemic is anxiety-provoking for most people. But modifying the way you perceive the situation can set you up to deal with it more effectively.

Bethany Teachman, Professor of Psychology, University of Virginia • conversation
March 30, 2020 ~6 min

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