AP Psychology Unit 2B Intelligence and Testing

Valid

The extent to which a test measures or predicts what it is supposed to.

Predictive Validity

The success with which a test predicts the behavior it is designed to predict.

Split-Half Reliability

A measure of reliability in which a test is split into two parts and an individual's scores on both halves are compared.

Growth Mindset

The idea that our abilities are malleable qualities that we can cultivate and grow.

Intelligence

The ability to learn from experience, solve problems, and use knowledge to adapt to new situations.

General Intelligence (g)

According to Spearman and others, it underlies all mental abilities and is therefore measured by every task on an intelligence test.

Fluid Intelligence

Our ability to reason speedily and abstractly; tends to decrease during late adulthood.

Crystallized Intelligence

Our accumulated knowledge and verbal skills; tends to increase with age.

Multiple Intelligences

The idea that human intelligence is comprised of a varied set of abilities rather than a single, all-encompassing one.

Reification

An error of treating an abstract concept as though it has a real, material existence.

Intelligence Quotient (IQ)

Originally defined as the ratio of mental age to chronological age multiplied by 100.

Mental Age

A measure of intelligence test performance that corresponds to a given level of performance.

Chronological Age

Age as measured in years from date of birth.

Intelligence Tests

A method for assessing an individual's mental aptitudes and comparing them with those of others, using numerical scores.

Psychometrics

The scientific study of the measurement of human abilities, attitudes, and traits.

Standardization

Defining meaningful scores by comparison with the performance of a pretested group.

Normal Curve

The symmetrical bell-shaped curve that describes the distribution of many physical and psychological attributes.

Construct Validity

How much a test measures a concept or trait.

Reliability

The extent to which a test yields consistent results.

Test-Retest Reliability

A method for determining the reliability of a test by comparing scores on the same test taken on separate occasions.

Stereotype Threat

A self-confirming concern that one will be evaluated based on a negative stereotype.

Stereotype Lift

Awareness of positive expectations can actually improve performance on tasks.

Flynn Effect

The rise in average IQ scores that has occurred over the decades in many nations.

Cross-Sectional Study

A study in which people of different ages are compared with one another.

Longitudinal Study

Research that follows and retests the same people over time.

Achievement Tests

Tests that measure a person's existing knowledge and skills.

Aptitude Tests

Tests that assess how well a person can learn or acquire skills and abilities.

Fixed Mindset

The idea that we have a set amount of an ability that cannot change.