1. Psychological Theories on Intelligence

2. Defining INTELLIGENCE: a general term referring to the ability or abilities involved in learning an adaptive behavior
Psychologists define intelligence: A collection of mental abilities including verbal, problem solving and practical intelligence.
Layman definition: Same as psychologists but also ADD social competence (interacting well, being open minded) +

3. Charles Spearman’s Theory
Intelligence is like a well or spring.
If you are good in one area, you will be good in all areas.
“nature” view
Very narrow minded view of intelligence.

4. L.L. Thurstone’s Theory 7 distinct kinds of mental abilities:
Spatial
Perceptual speed
Numerical ability
Verbal meaning
Memory
Word fluency
Reasoning.
These abilities are independent of one another, but it is assumed that if you are strong in one area you are strong in all areas.
All seven = general intelligence

5. J.P. Guilford’s Theory All mental ability involves one of 5 operations
Evaluation
Convergent thinking
Divergent thinking
Memory
Cognition
Use these operations on some type of content to result in some type of product.
These result in up to 120 different kinds of mental activities that define intelligence.

6. Robert Sternberg Alice: (Componential Intelligence)
Ability to learn how to do things and carry out tasks.
Celia: (Contextual Intelligence)
Capitalize on strengths and compensate for weaknesses. Seek situations that match their skills.
Barbara: (Experiential Intelligence)
Ability to adjust to new tasks, adapt creatively and gain insight.
LEFT BRAIN
BOTH
RIGHT BRAIN

7. R.B. Cattell Crystalized Intelligence Fluid Intelligence Reasoning
Verbal
Numerical skills
“school knowledge”
Essentially, LEFT BRAIN
Fluid Intelligence
Spatial and visual imagery
Ability to notice visual details
Essentially, RIGHT BRAIN

8. EVERYONE’S SMART! JUST FIND YOUR STRENGTH!
Howard Gardner
EVERYONE’S SMART! JUST FIND YOUR STRENGTH!
Separate areas of intelligence
Logical Mathematical: problem solving, math skills
Spatial: ability to imagine relative location, artistic
Musical: gift for music, rhythms, beats
Body Kinesthetic: great with sports, dance, coordination, learn best through movement
Interpersonal: able to communicate well among groups, motivate people, lead
Intrapersonal: understands self, knows how to obtain goals, personal reflection
Linguistic: excels in verbal and language skills
Naturalistic: understands nature, prefers being outside, categorizes things

9. Which PICTURE matches with the theorist?
Sternberg
Thurstone
Cattell
Gardner
Guilford
Spearman

10. Your opinion?
Which theory or theories do you find most credible in defining intelligence? Why?

11. Take this online MI test
(packet page 11)