What method did Oswald Kulpe apply in his research on problem solving?

Oswald Kulpe is known for his contributions to psychology, particularly in the area of problem-solving and thought processes. The method he applied in his research on problem solving was experimental introspection techniques, which involved having participants reflect on their internal cognitive processes while performing tasks. This approach allowed Kulpe to gather detailed information about how individuals arrived at solutions and the subjective experiences associated with their thought processes.

Experimental introspection encompasses structured methods that encourage participants to provide insights into their mental states, thoughts, and feelings during problem-solving exercises. This was a shift from earlier methodologies that primarily focused on observable behavior, thus paving the way for a deeper understanding of the subjective aspects of cognition. Kulpe's work helped to illuminate the complexities of mental operations beyond mere responses to stimuli, emphasizing the importance of internal cognitive processes in understanding human psychology.