The concept of 'functional fixedness' refers to the tendency of individuals to perceive objects only in their traditional or familiar roles, which limits their ability to imagine alternative uses for those objects. This cognitive bias can hinder problem-solving because it prevents people from seeing novel applications of familiar items. Psychologists argue that overcoming functional fixedness often requires deliberate mental effort to reframe the object's potential functions.
🎧 듣기 강의
Professor: Let me illustrate this with a classic experiment. In the study, participants were given a candle, a box of tacks, and a book of matches, and asked to attach the candle to a wall so that it could burn without dripping wax on the floor. Many participants struggled because they saw the tack box only as a container for tacks, not as a potential shelf. The solution was to empty the tacks, tack the empty box to the wall, and place the candle inside it. Those who solved it had to overcome the functional fixedness of the box—seeing it beyond its usual role. So, the key was breaking the mental block.
❓ 문제 Question: Using the example from the lecture, explain the concept of functional fixedness.
📊 TOEFL 말하기 평가 기준
Delivery: Fluency, pronunciation, intonation
Language Use: Grammar, vocabulary, sentence variety
Topic Development: Accurately explain the reading concept and restate the lecture examples
Scored 0-30 based on holistic scoring (original 0-4, scaled to 30). 30s preparation, 60s response.
💡 답변 팁
Note the core concept definition from the reading (usually 1-2 sentences)
Record 1-2 specific examples the professor uses in the lecture
Start with the concept definition, then explain with lecture examples
Use template phrases: "The reading defines... The professor illustrates this by..."
Keep within 60s; ensure clarity and fluency
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