Intelligence

achievement test

Tests designed to assess what a person has learned.

aptitude tests

Tests designed to predict a person's future performance; aptitude is the capacity to learn.

chronological age

The number of years one has been alive; one's age as determined by date of birth.

construct validity

The extent to which a test accurately measures some abstract trait or psychological notion.

content validity

The extent to which a test samples the behavior that is of interest.

fixed mindset

In Carol Dweck's model, a belief about intelligence that suggests it is not changeable.

Flynn effect

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

g (general intelligence)

A general intelligence factor that underlies specific mental abilities and is measured by intelligence tests.

growth mindset

In Carol Dweck's model, a belief about intelligence that suggests it can expand based on learning, experience, or practice.

intelligence

Mental quality consisting of the ability to learn from experience, solve problems, and use knowledge to adapt to new situations.

intelligence quotient (IQ)

A standardized scale used to measure intellectual abilities.

mental age

A measure of intelligence test performance indicative of the developmental age of the test taker.

predictive validity

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

psychometric principles

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

reliability

The extent to which a test yields consistent results.

split-half reliability

A measure of reliability in which a test is split into two equal parts to compare scores.

standardization

The use of uniform procedures in test administration to ensure comparability of results.

stereotype lift

An increase in a group's test performance due to not being part of a negative stereotype.

stereotype threat

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

test-retest reliability

Using the same test on two occasions to measure consistency.

validity

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

multiple abilities of intelligence

One theory that intelligence consists of several specific intelligences.

Norming

The process of establishing a normal distribution of scores for comparison.

Percentile Rank

The location of a score in a distribution expressed as the percentage of cases equal to or below that score.

In-Group Variations

The differences that exist within a group of people.