Intelligence in psychology is one of the most discussed and researched topics. Over time, researchers have been unable to identify what is involved in psychology. However, many attempts have been made, resulting in various intelligence theories. Some define intelligence as a single and general skill from the viewpoints of different researchers. Some say intelligence is a variety of gifts, abilities, and skills. The principal aim of this reflective report is to analyze the various approaches of different scholars on intelligence. The analysis will enable comparing and contrasting the approaches to measuring intelligence.
Triarchic Theory of Intelligence
Primarily, Robert Sternberg, the theorist, endeavored to explain his understanding of intelligence, which is the Triarchic Theory of Intelligence. This theory describes intelligence as a mental activity aimed at a purposeful adaptation, collection, and creation of life-related real-world environments ( Sternberg, 2018). In this theory, intelligence is calculated based on personal values and within one's socio-cultural background to achieve success in life. The ability to succeed depends on drawing on one's strengths and correcting or rewarding our weaknesses. To achieve a blend of intellectual, creative, and pragmatic abilities, achieving an equilibrium will involve adapting, shaping, and selecting intelligence contexts.
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Intelligence is analytical, imaginative, and realistic, according to Triarchic theory. When the intelligence variable is used in the analysis, assessment, evaluation, comparison, and contrast, analytical intelligence is involved. Typical issues are addressed when the decisions to be taken are somewhat abstract. On the other hand, to identify the creative aspect of intelligence, Stenberg and Todd Lubart conducted an investigation involving 36 people where they were required to create a different kind of products in writing, art, and science ( Sternberg, 2018). From this investigation, they found that creativity is relative. People are often creative in some domains as compared to others. They also found that relationships with traditional ability tests were moderate to minimal, which indicated that innovative intelligence tests assess abilities that vary significantly compared to conventional intelligence tests.
Gardner's Theory of Multiple Intelligences
Gardner delineates intelligence as the ability of one or more respected cultural contexts to solve fashion products. (Gardner & Hatch, 1989). This theory indicates that conventional intelligence psychometric views are too narrow. Gardner introduced his hypothesis in his 1983 book Frames of Spirit: the theory of multiple intelligences, stating that people all had different intelligence types. He made a list of seven employing biological and cultural studies. This current intelligence concept varies dramatically from the conventional view, which traditionally acknowledges two intelligence, verbal and machine bits. Gardner describes the eight bits of intelligence, including logical-mathematical intelligence, which can deduct and logically reasoning patterns. Scientific and mathematical reasoning is most commonly associated with this knowledge (Setiawan & Ilmiyah, 2020). Besides, linguistic intelligence requires language skills. This awareness requires using language efficiently to convey one another rhetorically or poetically. It can also be used to recall details by using language.
Similarly, spatial intelligence helps one monitor and generate mental images for problem-solving. Gardner identifies that spatial intelligence is generated in blind kids, too - this intelligence is not only a visual domain. (Setiawan & Ilmiyah, 2020). On the other hand, the ability to identify and write musical pitches, tones, and rhythms is a part of musical intelligence. Also, Gardner identified Kinesthetic as the capability to use one's mind in coordinating physical movements. Also, emotional intelligence involves the capacity to perceive one's own emotions, and motivation includes interpersonal feelings and other intentions, and intrapersonal knowledge (Setiawan & Ilmiyah, 2020). Finally, naturalist intellect refers to man's capacity to distinguish between living things and susceptibility to other natural characteristics of the environment.
Similarities between Gardner's Theory and Triarchic Theory
Both theories are not directed towards intelligence being a single or general ability. They are both directed towards defining intelligence as a range of aptitude, skills, and talents. Consequently, according to these theories, intelligence is broad. Besides, according to Gardner and Sternberg, intelligence occurs in contexts. Various domains can be attributed to different intelligence levels.
Differences between Gardner's Theory and Triarchic Theory
Gardner's multi-intelligence theory contrasts with Sternberg's, for Gardner argues that his eight intelligence forms were sufficiently distinct to identify it as his kind of intelligence. Sternberg argues that there is one intelligence power, but it comprises three separate components. Although there is some overlap, particularly concerning imagination, Gardner's intellect and the aspects of Sternberg are also different. Gardner recognizes intelligence aspects like kinesthetic, music, and naturalism. Sternberg mainly focuses on cognitive development elements that can be assessed by specific conventional means.
Conclusion
Gardner's and Sternberg's intelligence theories depict the broader concepts of intelligence. These two theories clearly show some similarities in the forms they are presented. However, numerous differences between the two theories exist as identified in the differences.
References
Gardner, H., & Hatch, T. (1989). Multiple intelligences go to school: Educational implications of the theory of multiple intelligences. Educational Researcher, 18(8), 4-9.
Setiawan, A. R., & Ilmiyah, S. (2020). Multiple Intelligences Based on Neuroscience.
Sternberg, R. J. (2018). The Triarchic theory of successful intelligence . The Guilford Press.
