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Meta-analytic evidence for a core problem solving network across multiple representational domains.

ABSTRACT: Problem solving is a complex skill engaging multi-stepped reasoning processes to find unknown solutions. The breadth of real-world contexts requiring problem solving is mirrored by a similarly broad, yet unfocused neuroimaging literature, and the domain-general or context-specific brain networks associated with problem solving are not well understood. To more fully characterize those brain networks, we performed activation likelihood estimation meta-analysis on 280 neuroimaging problem solving experiments reporting 3166 foci from 1919 individuals across 131 papers. The general map of problem solving revealed broad fronto-cingulo-parietal convergence, regions similarly identified when considering separate mathematical, verbal, and visuospatial problem solving domain-specific analyses. Conjunction analysis revealed a common network supporting problem solving across diverse contexts, and difference maps distinguished functionally-selective sub-networks specific to task type. Our results suggest cooperation between representationally specialized sub-network and whole-brain systems provide a neural basis for problem solving, with the core network contributing general purpose resources to perform cognitive operations and manage problem demand. Further characterization of cross-network dynamics could inform neuroeducational studies on problem solving skill development.

SUBMITTER: Bartley JE

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6425494 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

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Meta-analytic evidence for a core problem solving network across multiple representational domains.

Bartley Jessica E JE Boeving Emily R ER Riedel Michael C MC Bottenhorn Katherine L KL Salo Taylor T Eickhoff Simon B SB Brewe Eric E Sutherland Matthew T MT Laird Angela R AR

Neuroscience and biobehavioral reviews 20180623

Problem solving is a complex skill engaging multi-stepped reasoning processes to find unknown solutions. The breadth of real-world contexts requiring problem solving is mirrored by a similarly broad, yet unfocused neuroimaging literature, and the domain-general or context-specific brain networks associated with problem solving are not well understood. To more fully characterize those brain networks, we performed activation likelihood estimation meta-analysis on 280 neuroimaging problem solving e ...[more]

PMID: 29944961

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Meta-analytic evidence for a core problem solving network across multiple representational domains.

Publications

Meta-analytic evidence for a core problem solving network across multiple representational domains.

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