Disruption of the representativeness heuristic: Can we be perturbed into using correct probabilistic reasoning?

Abstract

Some misconceptions in learning and understanding statistical or probabilistic concepts stem from the use of what is called the “representativeness heuristic” for solving such problems. Incorrect solutions to problems is the result. This study provided graduate students enrolled in beginning inferential statistics with a series of experiences which seemed to disrupt such faulty logic by having them experience logical inconsistencies. Such direct experimental involvement with applied probability problems was recommended as a means to enhance the use of more appropriate probabilistic reasoning in subsequent statistical or probability problems.