The assessment of global optimization skills in procedural knowledge space theory

Procedural knowledge space theory aims to evaluate problem-solving skills using a formal representation of a problem space. Stefanutti et al. (2021) introduced the concept of the “shortest path space” to characterize optimal problem spaces when a task requires reaching a solution in the minimum number of moves. This paper takes that idea further. It expands the shortest-path space concept to include a wider range of optimization problems, where each move can be weighted by a real number representing its “value”. Depending on the application, the “value” could be a cost, waiting time, route length, etc. This new model, named the optimizing path space, comprises all the globally best solutions. Additionally, it sets the stage for evaluating human problem-solving skills in various areas, like cognitive and neuropsychological tests, experimental studies, and puzzles, where globally optimal solutions are required.