Two theories of clinical problem solving are contrasted; studies of medical problem solving are described; evidence is presented to highlight the central role of experience in development of problem-solving competence; and implications for teaching and assessment of problem solving, especially in medical education, are suggested. (MBR)

Although medical education currently emphasizes problem solving skills, recent evidence from psychological studies of clinical reasoning suggests that medical expertise is characterized by the gradual accumulation of experience in memory. This results in an ability to perceive, organize, and recall the extensive information given by the patient.…