Who is associated with the concept of problem solving via trial-and-error learning?

The concept of problem solving through trial-and-error learning is primarily associated with Edward Thorndike, who was a pioneering psychologist in the study of learning processes. His work, especially with animals, led to the formulation of the Law of Effect, which states that responses followed by satisfying outcomes are more likely to occur again in similar situations, while those followed by unpleasant outcomes are less likely to recur.

Thorndike famously conducted experiments with cats in "puzzle boxes." In these experiments, cats would learn to escape from a box by trying various behaviors until they discovered the one that worked, demonstrating that learning occurs through trial and error. This method illustrated how animals (and by extension, humans) learn from their experiences and adapt their behaviors based on the consequences of their actions.

While other psychologists like Skinner focused on operant conditioning and Bandura studied observational learning, neither emphasized trial-and-error learning in the same foundational way as Thorndike. Garcia is known for his research on conditioned taste aversion, which is a different area of learning altogether. Thus, Thorndike is the correct answer because his work laid the groundwork for understanding problem-solving as a process that involves trying multiple approaches until a successful one is found.