Question

Select two theories of human intelligence. Describe each theory comparing the similarities of the theories, including how the two theories are different. Which one do you feel explains intelligence more thoroughly or accurately, and why?

Answer 1

Human theories are mainly of four major types 1) Psychometric theories 2) Cognitive theories 3) Conntive -contextual theories 4) Biological theories.

Psychometric theories mainely concerned with individual differences in test performance on cognitive tests.T his includes the importance of general intelligence, have dominated the psychometric theories. Cognitive theories derive from studying the processes involved in intelligent performance. These processes range from the very simple to the fairly complex Different theorists have focused on different processes (or aspects of these processes, such as processing speed). Cognitive-contextual theories emphasize processes that demonstrate intelligence within a particular context. Major theories include Sternberg’s triarchic theory, Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences, and Piaget’s theory of development. Biological theories emphasize the relationship between intelligence, and the brain and its functions. Numerous relationships have been found, but none have been elaborated into a detailed theory of the neuropsychology of intelligence.

Howard Gardner's (1983) putforward the original theory of Multiple Intelligences which comprised seven types of intelligences:

1)Linguistic Intelligence

Linguistic intelligence states the ability to learn languages & to use one's skill in using language effectively to accomplish specific goals. Individuals high in linguistic intelligence are often to br writers, poets, and lawyers.

2)Logical-Mathematical Intelligence

Logical-mathematical intelligence is described the ability to analyze problems logically. It includes skill at completing mathematical operations and solving mathematical problems as well as the ability to investigate hypotheses scientifically. Those high in logical-mathematical intelligenceare said to be logical thinkers with high deductive reasoning skills.

3) SPATIAL INTELLIGENCE :

Spatial intelligence refers to an individual's ability to represent the spatial world in their own minds. It comprises skill at recognizing &using patterns. Architects, urban planners, geographers, cartographers, pilots, & sailors tend to be in a high spatial intelligence abilities.

4) Musical intelligence : known for musicial abilities

Musical intelligence includes abilities in composing , performing ,recognizing and composing musical pitches, tones, and rhythms. Includes skills in recognizing & appreciating musical patterns. Individuals high in musical intelligence may have talents in vocal or instrumental abilities.

5) Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence:

Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence refers to an individual's ability to use mental abilities to coordinate bodily movements. According to Gardner, mental and physical abilities are related. Athletes, dancers, actors, and performers often display high levels of bodily-kinesthetic intelligence.

6) Interpersonal Intelligence

Interpersonal intelligence are concerned with an individual's ability understand the intentions, motivations, & desires of other people. Such skills are beneficial in working & getting along with others. Those high in interpersonal intelligence are often educators, salespeople, religious and political leaders, counsellors and social workers.

7) INTERPERSONAL INTELLIGENCE :

Intrapersonal intelligence states the capacity to understand oneself--one's thoughts, feelings, fears, desires, and motivations. It also includes the ability to use this knowledge toward successful outcomes. Writers & artists often demonstrate intrapersonal intelligence in their work.

Howard Gardner's Theory of Multiple Intelligences has received strong positive responses from educators,.

Triarchic Theory of Human Intelligence :

Sternberg's (1985) introduced Triarchic Theory of Human Intelligence that includes three facets:

1) Analytical Intelligence .

Analytical Intelligence is a measure of one's ability to solve academic problems, such as analogies and puzzles. It is seen as a reflection of how the individual relates to one another

2) Creative Intelligence .

Creative Intelligence states an individual's ability to connect their internal world to their external reality. It comprises one's ability to use prior knowledge in new or innovative ways in different circumstances, such as finding a new approach to a problem. In this manner, creative intelligence encompasses creative thinking.

3 ) Practical Intelligence

Practical Intelligence concerns one's ability to understand & deal with everyday tasks effectively. It is how the individual relates to the external world.

Most individuals will score higher in one of the three areas of intelligence.

Theory of Successful Intelligence

Sternberg (1999) holds that individuals who excel in all areas of the triarchic intelligence test may be considered to have successful intelligence, which he defines as the ability to achieve success in accordance with one's personal standards and within one's socio-cultural context. Individuals with high levels of successful intelligence tend to be better equipped for success and able to adapt well to their socio-cultural context.

Sternberg’s (1999) constructed a successful intelligence theory that may be applied to educational settings with the aim of increasing student learning while bridging gaps among socio-economic and ethnically diverse groups.

COMPARISIONS : Howard Gardner and Robert Sternberg are experts in their fields & there is a basic similarity between their theories in that they both believe in a broader definition of intelligence than traditionally recognized. They also believes that there are far more complex functions involved in it.

DIFFERENCES IN Robert Sternberg & Howard Gardner's theory : It is observed that there is a
strong link between specific brain function & ability in particular areas which identifies seven distinct types of intelligence & each person has a level of each.

where as Sternbergs theory -helps people develop &, in turn will allow them to develop appropriately for their surroundings, regardless of their academic or supposedly lack of academic intelligence.