Psych 101- 17 Measuring Cognition

Reliability

The extent to which a test yields consistent results over time or alternative forms

• test-retest reliability reveals consistency over time

• split-half reliability shows extent to which a test yields consistency over alternative forms

Validity

extent to which a test accurately measures or predicts what it is designed to measure or predit

• construct (face) validity: extent to which a test measures what it is designed to measure

• predictive validity: extent to which a test measures what it is designed to predict

Multifaceted Nature

includes a variety of cognitive abilities (abstract reasoning, verbal comprehension, memory, creativity, and speed of processing)

Spearmen’s General Intelligence Theory

Intelligence is not one single entity, but consists of multiple distinct types, each important for different tasks

• Linguistic

• Logical-math

• Spatial

• Musical

• Bodily Kinesthetic

• Interpersonal

• Intrapersonal

• Naturalistic

• Existential

Sternberg’s Triarchic Theory of Intelligence

3 Interacting Abilities

1. Analytical Intelligence: academic problem solving, logical, analytical

2. Creative Intelligence: Ability to deal with novel situations, think outside the box

3. Practical intelligence: common sense, street smarts, and the ability to adapt to everyday demands

Divergent thinking

generating many possible solutions

Convergent thinking

narrowing options down to best solution

Emotional Intelligence (EQ)

ability to perceive/regulate/understand and use emotions effectively for one’s self and others

• Components: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, social skills

• High EQ predicts good work place performance, leadership, mental health, relationship satisfaction, and conflict resolution skills

Standardization

administering a test under uniform conditions and using consistent instructions so all takers are assessed the same

Normalization

converting raw test scores into standard score distribution based on representative example

• creates a norm group, in modern IQ tests the mean score =100 with a standard deviation of 15. A 115 is one SD above the mean

Weschler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS)

Measures adult intelligence across multiple domains

• Verbal comprehension index

• Perceptual reading index

• Working memory index

• Processing speed index

Group differences in test scores

statistical difference in average scores between groups NOT due to complex interplay of socioeconomic, cultural, education factors