Question

Intelligence theory incorporates the mental processes involved in intelligence (i.e. meta-components), and the varied forms that intelligence can take (i.e. creative intelligence)
1. Spearman's 'g' factor
2. Sternberg's triarchic theory of intelligence
3. Savant theory of intelligence
4. Thurstone's primary mental abilities

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 2 : Sternberg's triarchic theory of intelligence

Sternberg defined human intelligence as the cognitive ability to learn from experience to reason well, to remember important information, and to cope with the demands of daily living. Thus, it involves reasoning, problem-solving ability, knowledge, memory, and successful adaptation to one’s surroundings (Sternberg, 2004). He viewed intelligence as how well an individual deal with environmental changes throughout their life span.​

The three types of intelligence according to Sternberg:

1. Componential or analytical intelligence:
   • It refers to the ability to break down the problem into components and analyze things for problem–solving.
   • It reflects the traditional conceptualization of intelligence and relates more to academic achievement. It is also called as being ‘book smart’.They are good at problem-solving and abstract reasoning.
   • Analytical intelligence or academic problem-solving skills consists of three components such as metal components, performance components, and knowledge acquisition components. 
     1. Meta components are the executive part that controls the other two components. They control and monitor cognitive processing. They tell the performance components of what to do.
     2. Performance components help in performing a task or solving a problem. Thus it uses attention, coding, memory, etc.
     3. Knowledge acquisition components help in acquiring knowledge and use different strategies for it.
2. Experiential or creative intelligence:
   • It refers to new ways of problem-solving by engaging in divergent thinking.
   • It uses prior knowledge and experience to come up with new ideas and solve problems.
   • It includes two components: Automation and novelty.
     1. Automation means some aspects of information processing are automated, they do not require much attention, effort, or energy. They can run parallel to other processes.
     2. This enables the individual to use cognitive resources for coming up with novel/ new ideas.
3. Contextual or practical intelligence:
   • It refers to the ability to use the information to function effectively in life.
   • It is also known as ‘street smart’ or being high on ‘common sense’. It is the ability to understand and deal with everyday situations and events successfully.
   • It is the ability to adapt, adjust, and change depending on the contextual requirements. Thus they can handle real-life problems.