There are probably as many definitions of intelligence as there are researchers studying the concept, but most include the ability to learn, apply knowledge and adapt to new situations, problem solve and reason. Intellectual aptitude in school-aged children has traditionally been based on the idea that intelligence is represented by a single, general factor. However, the fundamental question as to whether a single test score can accurately reflect the complexities of a child’s thinking has been debated, and alternative, broader definitions has been offered in the last few decades.
You work for a private company that provides intelligence testing for children. You have two types of intelligence tests from which clients can select: the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-IV) which is a traditional measure of intelligence, and The Sternberg Triarchic Abilities Test (STAT), which is based on Sternberg’s information processing, triarchic theory of intelligence.
Two parents come to you for a meaningful measurement of intelligence for their child. The first parent, Mrs. Anderson, is looking for an intelligence test score for placement. Her child will be entering 4th grade soon and she is looking for an intelligence test that will help determine if her child qualifies for entry into an advanced class of gifted children. The school system requires that a child be in the 95th percentile to qualify.
The second parent is Mrs. Letterman. Her son, also a third-grader, is struggling in school and performs about average on traditional tests of intelligence. However, the teacher told Mrs. Letterman that her son excels on projects that require nontraditional ways of approaching a question. Mrs. Letterman would like to gain a better understanding of her son’s cognitive thinking process and intellectual abilities so that she can work with the teacher to enhance the academic environment for her son.
Describe the two tests available to the parents, making sure you include advantages and disadvantages of each. Make a recommendation for each parent and support your decision with your knowledge of each approach.
