Multiple Intellegences

Traditional Intelligence, Spearman and Cattell’s Theories

Traditional views of intelligence was that there is one form of intelligence which was fixed and could limit your ability to learn. This approach to intelligence is where the IQ test came from, criticised now for its narrowness. Spearman suggest a 2 area model of intelligence, general mental ability or ‘g’ and specific mental ability. ‘g’ is seen as something you have at a particular level, therefore determining a person’s intelligence as it forms a person’s intellectual capacity. Specific mental ability accounts for particular talents.

Cattell divided intelligence into crystallised and fluid abilities. Crystallised intelligence is culturally based and involves general and fact knowledge. Fluid intelligence is non-verbal activities such as problem solving and spatial visualisation.

 

Sternberg’s Triarchic Model

This is similar to Garner’s theory in that Sternberg also rejected the traditional approach to intelligence as being too narrow. Sternberg views intelligence as multifaceted. Garner viewed intelligence in the form of content, whereas Sternberg categorises intelligence based on the application method. Sternberg has divided intelligence into 3 areas Analytic, Creative and Practical. He stresses that knowing how to use your knowledge is more important than what you know. Using this theory means teaching practical skills such as critical thinking, this theory has also tried to combine Garner’s theory.

 

Analytic Intelligence

This aspect of intelligence refers to a person’s cognitive ability. This involves the information processing skills and metacognition. This ability is promoted by activities that involve contrasting, analysing, comparing, critiquing, questioning and explaining.

 

Creative Intelligence

This aspect of intelligence refers to a person’s ability to respond to the world around them using their prior experiences. This involves responding to new experiences and skills. This ability is promoted by activities that involve designing, inventing, creating and imagining.

 

Practical Intelligence

This aspect of intelligence refers to a person’s ability to navigate in the everyday environment. This involves adapting skills in response to particular situations. This ability is promoted by activities that involve applying, demonstrating and implementing.