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Essay about Intelligence Definition and Measurements

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Psychologists have differed on the definition for intelligence and how to measure intelligence. In this paper the definition of intelligence and how it is measured will be discussed by comparing and contrasting the two intelligence tests and two achievement tests chosen from the Mental Measurement Yearbook. The intelligence tests chosen were the Primary Test of Nonverbal Intelligence (PTONI) and the Test of Memory and Learning, 2nd ed., (TOMAL-2) and the achievement tests chosen were the Basic Achievement Skills Inventory (BASI) and the Differential Ability Scales, 2nd ed. (DAS-II). The measures of the intelligence tests will be evaluated for reliability, validity, normative procedure, and bias, and then compared with the achievement …show more content…

Theory
Choosing a theory of intelligence is difficult because like defining intelligence, most researchers look at intelligence differently. Some believe intelligence is a single general ability and others believe intelligence is multidimensional. Theories are just as controversial but one theory that fits the PTONI and the TOMAL-2 is Louis Thurstone’s theory of Primary Mental Abilities. This theory focuses on seven different abilities. The PTONI test is designed for children who have social, language, and motoric functioning difficulties. The test is easily administered and works best with children who have some intellectual functioning. The TOMAL-2 works well to address questions regarding learning disabilities, attention deficit, closed head injuries, and other questions concerning children. Thurstone’s theory focused on many of the areas that would show the deficits a child with a disability would exhibit (Cherry, 2011).
Definition and Measurements
The definition of intelligence is very broad and includes different tasks and abilities that need to be observed as well as one’s life experiences and learned knowledge to be demonstrated. Many factors can affect the measurement of intelligence on a test. The test designer’s definition of intelligence and the attentiveness of the person giving the test are just two factors. Other possible factors affecting the outcome of the test are coaching or practicing prior to the test, interaction

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