Accessing Problem-Solving Strategy Knowledge: The Complementary Use of Concurrent Verbal Protocols and Retrospective Debriefing

This investigation explored the types of problem-solving strategy knowledge that can be accessed through the complementary use of 2 forms of verbal reports: concurrent verbal protocols (CVP) and retrospective debriefings (RD). Because the CVP-RD methodology is not commonly used, research-based guidelines for each methodology were specified and explained in the context of information-processing theory. These guidelines were then applied in the collection of 36 data sets containing CVP and RD accounts of problem solving by professors and students in biology and political science. Secondary analysis of these data focused on the kinds of problem-solving strategy knowledge contained and the relationships between CVP and RD data. The complementary use of CVP and RD methodologies provided a detailed account of problem-solving strategies used, as well as the conditional knowledge, general beliefs, and strategy acquisition knowledge that mediate strategy use. The dual CVP-RD methodology also enhanced reliability and validity in data collection and interpretation.