Overview
This lecture introduces Robert Sternberg's Triarchic Theory of Intelligence, highlighting its three components and critiquing traditional IQ measurement.
Critique of Traditional IQ Tests
- Early intelligence research focused on the "G Factor," a general mental ability.
- IQ scores measure only certain cognitive abilities, often neglecting broader skills.
- Sternberg argued that intelligence involves success in life, not just test performance.
- He believed adapting, shaping, and adjusting to environments are key aspects of intelligence.
Triarchic Theory of Intelligence
- Sternberg proposed intelligence consists of three types of abilities:
- Analytical, Creative, and Practical Intelligence.
- Analytical intelligence involves analyzing, critiquing, and evaluating information.
- Creative intelligence involves discovering, inventing, and creating new ideas.
- Practical intelligence involves applying, utilizing, and implementing knowledge in real-life situations.
- Everyone possesses all three types of intelligence to varying degrees.
Application and Research Findings
- Teaching students according to their strongest intelligence type improves performance.
- Intelligence should be seen as a set of diverse abilities, not just a single number.
Key Terms & Definitions
- G Factor — General intelligence underlying performance on cognitive tasks.
- Analytical Intelligence — Ability to analyze, critique, and evaluate.
- Creative Intelligence — Ability to discover, invent, and create.
- Practical Intelligence — Ability to apply and implement knowledge in daily life.
- Triarchic Theory — Sternberg's model dividing intelligence into three components.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Reflect on personal strengths in analytical, creative, and practical intelligence.
- Be prepared to discuss examples of each intelligence type in class.