A heuristic method of learning involves discovery and problem-solving, using reasoning and past experience.
[technical]
2. adjective
A heuristic computer program uses rules based on previous experience in order to solve a problem, rather than using a mathematical procedure.
[computing]
3. See also algorithm
heuristic in British English
(hjʊəˈrɪstɪk)
adjective
1.
helping to learn; guiding in discovery or investigation
2.
(of a method of teaching) allowing pupils to learn things for themselves
3.
a. mathematics, science, philosophy
using or obtained by exploration of possibilities rather than by following set rules
b. computing
denoting a rule of thumb for solving a problem without the exhaustive application of an algorithm
a heuristic solution
noun
4. (plural)
the science of heuristic procedure
Derived forms
heuristically (heuˈristically)
adverb
Word origin
C19: from New Latin heuristicus, from Greek heuriskein to discover
heuristic in American English
(hjuˈrɪstɪk)
adjective
helping to discover or learn; specif., designating a method of education or of computer programming in which the pupil or machine proceeds along empirical lines, using rules of thumb, to find solutions or answers
Derived forms
heuristically (heuˈristically)
adverb
Word origin
< Ger heuristisch < Gr heuriskein, to invent, discover: see eureka