Intlligence Defnition and Measure
Running Head: INTELLIGENCE DEFINITION AND MEASUREMENT
Intelligence Definition and Measurement
PSYCH 525 Measurements and Statistics
February 04, 2013
Christie Seiler, Ph.D.
Intelligence Definition and Measurement
Defining and measuring intelligence remains just as controversial as it was when the first very first intelligence test was developed and administered. Over the years, various instruments have been developed, but intelligence ultimately remains undefined. In this paper, the writer will critique the major definitions of intelligence and determine the most appropriate definition for each intelligence and achievement instrument. The writer will consider the ethical implications of utilizing intelligence and achievement tests in educational settings. Lastly, the writer will compare and contrast the selected achievement and intelligence measurements.
Intelligence Definitions The Merriam -Webster online dictionary defines intelligence as: (1). the ability to learn or understand to deal with new trying situations, (2). the ability to apply knowledge to manipulate one’s environment or to think abstractly as measured by objective criteria (tests). Cohen and Swerdlik (2010), notes that intelligence manifest itself in the following abilities: acquiring and using knowledge, logically reasoning skills, effective planning, perception, judgment making, problem solving attention, visualizing concepts, intuition, and coping, adjusting, and dealing with situations. However, theses abilities do not absolutely define intelligence, instead, they provide an outline of characteristics in which intelligence can be measured. Francis Galton, Alfred Binet, David Wechsler, and Jean Piaget are considered the most influential contributors in developing, defining and understanding intelligence. Galton is known for making the first serious attempt to develop measures which would assess a person’s intelligence. Galton proposed the
Intelligence Definition and Measurement
PSYCH 525 Measurements and Statistics
February 04, 2013
Christie Seiler, Ph.D.
Intelligence Definition and Measurement
Defining and measuring intelligence remains just as controversial as it was when the first very first intelligence test was developed and administered. Over the years, various instruments have been developed, but intelligence ultimately remains undefined. In this paper, the writer will critique the major definitions of intelligence and determine the most appropriate definition for each intelligence and achievement instrument. The writer will consider the ethical implications of utilizing intelligence and achievement tests in educational settings. Lastly, the writer will compare and contrast the selected achievement and intelligence measurements.
Intelligence Definitions The Merriam -Webster online dictionary defines intelligence as: (1). the ability to learn or understand to deal with new trying situations, (2). the ability to apply knowledge to manipulate one’s environment or to think abstractly as measured by objective criteria (tests). Cohen and Swerdlik (2010), notes that intelligence manifest itself in the following abilities: acquiring and using knowledge, logically reasoning skills, effective planning, perception, judgment making, problem solving attention, visualizing concepts, intuition, and coping, adjusting, and dealing with situations. However, theses abilities do not absolutely define intelligence, instead, they provide an outline of characteristics in which intelligence can be measured. Francis Galton, Alfred Binet, David Wechsler, and Jean Piaget are considered the most influential contributors in developing, defining and understanding intelligence. Galton is known for making the first serious attempt to develop measures which would assess a person’s intelligence. Galton proposed the
References: Cohen, R. J., & Swerdlik, M. E. (2010). Psychological testing and assessment: An introduction to tests and measurement (7th ed) Denmark, Bonnie (2013). Ethical Issues in the Preparation of a Standardized Test. Retrieved from: http://www.ehow.com/info_8165059_ethical-issues-preparation-standardized-test.html on February 4, 2013. Merriam-Webb Online Dictionary Niolon, Richard (2005). Introduction to the WAIS III. Retrieved from: http://www.psychpage.com/learning/library/intell/wais_history.html on February 4 Pearson. (2009). Wechsler Individual Achievement test-Third Edition. Retrieved from Mental Measurements Yearbook Roid, G (2003). Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales, Fifth Edition. Retrieved from Mental Measurements Yearbook.