Overview
This lecture introduces Spearman's General Intelligence Theory, defining intelligence and summarizing Spearman's concept of general and specific abilities.
Defining Intelligence
- Intelligence can mean creativity, academic success, or memory, but is generally the ability to acquire and apply knowledge and skills.
- Various theories view intelligence as a single entity, several entities, or a hierarchy.
Spearman's General Intelligence Theory
- Spearman proposed the General Intelligence Theory, also called the Two-Factor Theory.
- He believed intelligence is a single general ability influencing all mental abilities.
- His research found correlations between different intellectual task scores (e.g., vocabulary and math).
Two Factors of Intelligence
- The theory includes two factors: the g factor (general intelligence) and s factors (specific abilities).
- The g factor is a single, inborn, constant ability affecting all mental skills.
- S factors are learned, vary between individuals, and affect only specific abilities.
Characteristics of g and s Factors
- g factor: Only one, innate, stable, impacts all cognitive tasks.
- s factors: Multiple, learned socially, impact particular skills, and vary among people.
Visualization of the Theory
- Specific abilities (verbal, numerical, spatial, mechanical) are like slices of pizza—different but all part of the whole (general intelligence).
- All specific abilities are interconnected through general intelligence.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Intelligence — ability to acquire and apply knowledge and skills.
- General Intelligence (g factor) — a single, innate, constant cognitive ability affecting all mental activities.
- Specific Abilities (s factors) — individual learned skills affecting performance in particular areas only.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Reflect on your own opinion about general intelligence theory.
- Review additional resources or references if more detail is desired.