Cognitive Competence

Tomorrow’s Leader
Term paper
Topic: Cognitive Competence

Wai (Synergy)

Content
Part 1 1. Definition cognitive competence P.3-4 2. Theory of cognitive competence P.5-8 3. Factors affecting cognitive competence P.9-10 4. Importance of cognitive competence in leadership P.11-12 5. Ways to enhance the level of cognitive competence P.13-14

Part 2
Self evaluation P.15-17

Part 3
Reference P.18-19

Part 1
Definition of cognitive competence

1. Cognitive competence is defined as the ability to perform adequately those cognitively complex tasks considered essential for living on one's own in this society. (Willis SL.(1996). Everyday cognitive competence in elderly persons: conceptual issues and empirical findings, Oct;36(5):595-601)

2. The ability to develop and apply the cognitive skills of self-talk, the reading and interpretation of social cues, using steps for problem-solving and decision making, understanding the perspective of others, understanding behavioral norms, a positive attitude towards life, and self –awareness. (The W.T. Grant Consortium on the School-Based Promotion of Social Competence (1992: 136))

3. Academic and intellectual achievement. (include the ability to use logic, analytic thinking, and abstract reasoning) (Catalano, R. F., Berglund, M. L., Ryan, J. A. M., Lonczak, H. S., & Hawkins, J. D. (2002). Positive youth development in the United States: Research findings on evaluations of positive youth development programs. Prevention and Treatment, 5 (15), 1-106.)

This three definitions are little bit different. The third one is too narrow as it just mentioned academic and intellectual achievement. The second one, on the other hand, is not specific enough. In my understanding, I think cognitive competence is best defined using the first two definitions.
“Cognitive competence is defined as the ability to perform adequately those cognitively complex tasks