Abstract Reasoning and Problem-Solving Skills of First Year College Students

Abstract

The study ought to discuss the two of the considered most important cognitive processes, the Abstract Reasoning and Problem-Solving Skills. In general, the study hypothesized a statistically significant relationship between the respondents’ abstract reasoning ability and problem-solving skills. Moreover, the study also focuses on the categories of problem solving based on Triarchic Theory of human intelligence by Robert J. Sternberg: the Analytical, Practical and Creative Problem Solving and the probability of difference between these three. Findings showed that there is no significant difference between the categories of problem solving. In addition, there are significant differences in the performance of the respondents in abstract reasoning when classified to the college or department they belong. It is also the same with the respondents’ performance in analytical, practical, creative and general problem solving. As a final point, there is a significant direct proportion relationship between the respondents’ abstract reasoning and problem solving skills.