Theories of Intelligence Ability to learn from experience, solve problems, and apply knowledge in new situations

Theorists Charles Spearman - psychometrics Thurstone General intelligence (g) Factor analysis Thurstone

Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences Linguistic Logical-mathematical Spatial Musical Body-kinesthetic Intrapersonal Interpersonal Naturalist Existential?

Savant Syndrome

Sternberg’s Triarchic Theory Analytical “Book Smarts” Creative Practical “Street smarts”

Goleman’s Emotional Intelligence (EQ) OR IQ? EQ?

Brain Size and Intelligence Is there a link? Small +.15 correlation between head size and intelligence scores (relative to body size). Using an MRI we found +.33 correlation with brain size and IQ score.

Brain Function & Intelligence Perceptual processing correlated with intelligence scores (+.3 to +.5) Stimulus Mask Question: Long side on left or right?

Assessing Intelligence Alfred Binet & mental age -Binet Test IQ = mental age x 100 chronological age

Types of Tests Aptitude Achievement Measure ability or potential. Tests that measure what you have learned.

Wechsler Scales WAIS (adults) WISC (children)

Normal Distribution

The Flynn Effect

Test Construction Reliability - consistent scores when test is re-taken Split-half reliability Validity – does it measure what it intends to measure? Content validity Predictive validity

Extremes of Intelligence

Does Intelligence Change Over Time? By age 3, a child’s IQ can predict adolescent IQ scores. Depends on the type of intelligence, crystallized or fluid.

Genetic Influences on Intelligence

Heritability Extent to which variation among individuals can be attributed to genetic factors

Genetic Influences on Intelligence

Environmental Influences The Schooling Effect

Gender & Ethnic Differences in Intelligence

Bias in Intelligence Tests Stereotype threat