Intelligence and
Individual Differences
What is intelligence?
Is it a general trait? Or Collection of specific skills?
Is it affected by genetics?
How much is nurtured by environment?
How important is it for success?
Definition
person's capacity to
(1) acquire knowledge (i.e. learn and understand),
(2) apply knowledge (solve problems),
(3) engage in abstract reasoning
Origin of IQ
Alfred Binet (1904)
True deficits versus more capable (but lazy)
Created test made up of intellectual questions and problems
Learned questions an average child could answer at each age
Administer test to gauge student’s intelligence
How do we determine IQ?
Mental Age/Chronological Age x 100
Examples
What is the normal IQ?
Is IQ result of Nature or Nurture?
Nature/Nurture Question
Genetics
Twins reared apart show similar IQ’s
Environment
Higher SES - higher IQs than Lower SES
Should we view intelligence based solely on analytical thinking and reasoning skills?
A Different View of Intelligence
What about street smarts?
What if a child cannot read well but can program computers?
What if a child cannot do math but can play an intricate piece of music?
Are they intelligent?
IQ scores would show low IQ
Multiple Intelligences: Gardner
Actually 8 different kinds of intelligences
Language (Word smart)
Logic and Math (Number smart)
Visual and Spatial Thinking (Picture smart)
Music (Music Smart)
Bodily-Kinesthetic Skills (Body Smart)
Intrapersonal Skills (Self Smart)
Interpersonal Skills (People smart)
Naturalistic Skills (Nature Smart)
Educational Implications?
What should educators keep in mind about intelligence?
Students are tracked based on scores on standardized tests. What are your thoughts about tracking?
Tracking
Within Class
Example:
3 levels of Reading Groups within 5th grade classroom
Between Class
Vocational versus College Prep
What are some pros and cons with tracking?
Other questions about IQ
Do IQ tests even predict how one will effectively cope with the world?
What about ACT and other Standardized tests? Are these accurate?
Should we eliminate use of tests as basis for entrance into colleges, programs, etc?
How can we best measure intelligence?
