Describe the features that have been used to define intelligence according to theorists in the field.
Edwin Boring described it as “what intelligence tests measure”. Neisser et al (APA consensus) described it as the ability to understand complex ideas, adapt effectively to environment, learn from experience, engage in reasoning, and overcome obstacles.
What was Spearman’s key finding when he ran a factor analysis on scores from a range of different cognitive ability tests?
All cognitive ability tests appeared to intercorrelate to some degree.
What is the key difference between Spearman’s and Thurstone’s attempts to conceptualize intelligence?
Spearman: one general factor (g). Thurstone: multiple factors, not fully independent, and shared variance too small for a common factor.
What influential innovation in intelligence theory was included in the Cattell-Horn model?
Two major types of intelligence: crystallized (e.g., knowledge) and fluid (e.g., memory).
What influential innovation in intelligence theory was included in Carroll’s model?
A hierarchical model: general intelligence at the top, more specific abilities below.
What criticisms of the factor analytic approach to intelligence have been proposed?
Factors may just describe results, not traits (Gould). Correlations are always positive (Jensen). Correlation ≠ causation (Howe).
How do information processing theories of intelligence differ from factor analytic theories of intelligence?
They view intelligence as computational processes rather than a structure of abilities. Planning is a key overlooked element.
Describe Sternberg’s triarchical model of intelligence.
Three components: metacomponents (planning, evaluating), performance components (execute), and knowledge acquisition (learning).
Describe the key idea behind Luria’s theory of intelligence.
Intelligence as simultaneous (e.g., face recognition) or successive (e.g., reading) processing.
List four types of model of intelligence.
Factor analysis, information processing, developmental, biological.
Why might you want to select a theory of intelligence when designing an intelligence test?
Different theories have different focuses and provide structural guidance for test design.
Describe the key features of the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale.
3-level model based on CHC theory, with 5 factors: fluid reasoning, knowledge, quantitative reasoning, visual-spatial reasoning, working memory.
List the five factors used in the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale (5th edition).
Fluid reasoning, knowledge, quantitative reasoning, visual-spatial reasoning, working memory.
What are the three Wechsler IQ tests?
WPPSI-IV (ages 3–7), WISC-V (ages 6–16), WAIS-IV (adults).
Why are the Stanford-Binet and Wechsler tests most commonly used to test IQ?
They are well-established, standardized, reliable, and supported by validity research.
When might you want to use an IQ test other than the Stanford-Binet or the Wechsler tests?
For special populations (e.g., disabilities, non-English speakers); when verbal/motor demands need to be reduced.
Describe the properties and procedures used in Raven’s Progressive Matrices.
Non-verbal, group-administered, designed to measure Spearman’s g. Independent of language and education.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of individual versus group-administered IQ tests?
Individual: better observation, adaptive, but costly/time-consuming. Group: efficient, cheaper, but less flexible and more reliant on literacy.
Describe the three categories of educational assessment, giving examples.
Achievement (e.g., exam), Aptitude (e.g., readiness), Diagnostic (e.g., learning disorder tests).
What are the issues involved in testing pre-schoolers?
Short attention spans, limited language/concepts, poor prediction of future intelligence.
Why might we want to evaluate the cognitive abilities of a pre-schooler?
To identify disabilities as early as possible.
Give an example of a test you might use to test a pre-schooler’s intelligence.
WPPSI-VI
True or False: Spearman’s g refers to the specific factors assessed by different cognitive ability tests.
False – g refers to general intelligence, not specific factors.
True or False: The intercorrelation found between different cognitive abilities is known as Spearman’s rho.
False – Spearman’s rho is a non-parametric correlation method, not the name for the intercorrelation.
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Week 1: The Scope of Measurement23
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Week 2: Standardisation35
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Week 4: Reliability60
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Week 5: Validity65
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Week 6: How to Create a Test and Individual Score Interpretation40
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Week 7: Individual Score Interpretation and Controversies in Intelligence48
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Week 8: Measuring Intelligence53
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Week 9: Personality51
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Week 10: Test Bias and Test Utility44
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Week 11: Extreme Psychometrics47
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Week 12: Assessment in Clinical Practice9
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Week 13: Getting a Job27
