Individual differences

Question 1

The role of labels - benefits

Answer 1

• facilitate access to resources and services
• provide a framework for understanding challenges and difficulties
• offer explanations to parents, fostering support networks

Question 2

the role of labels - challenges

Answer 2

• may perpetuate feelings of abnormality, anxiety, or low self-esteem
• can result in self-fulfilling prophecies, where expectations shape outcomes
• overgeneralisation within categories overlooks individual needs along continuums

Question 3

Intelligence

Answer 3

capacity to understand the world, think rationally, and use resources effectively in challenges

Question 4

Spearman’s general intelligence (G-factor)

Answer 4

a single factor underpins all cognitive abilities

Question 5

Cattell’s two-factor model

Answer 5

fluid intelligence: problem-solving and adaptation to new situations without prior knowledge
crystallized intelligence: knowledge accumulated through experience and education

Question 6

Gardner’s multiple intelligences

Answer 6

proposes eight distinct intelligences (linguistic, spatial, interpersonal), challenging the idea of a single “IQ”

Question 7

Sternberg’s triarchic theory

Answer 7

analytical intelligence: academic problem-solving and logical reasoning
creative intelligence: generating novel ideas and solutions
practical intelligence: applying knowledge to real-world contexts

Question 8

IQ tests

Answer 8

IQ=(chronological age mental age) x 100
modern approaches use deviation scores, comparing individuals to population norms

Question 9

IQ tests applications

Answer 9

• identifying students needing support
• diagnosing cognitive challenges
• guiding educational and vocational choices

Question 10

measuring intelligence (challenges)

Answer 10

• bias toward certain cultures and socio-economic groups
• over-reliance on IQ as a measure of natural ability, neglecting effort and environmental factors

Question 11

The Flynn effect

Answer 11

generational increases in average IQ scores, likely due to environmental improvements (e.g. education, nutrition)

Question 12

cultural considerations

Answer 12

culture-fair tests attempt to minimize biases but face limitations due to culturally specific problem-solving strategies and experiences

Question 13

creativity

Answer 13

solving problems by combining ideas or behaviors in novel ways

Question 14

creativiy traits in education

Answer 14

traits like curiosity, adaptability, humor, and risk-taking signal creative potential

Question 15

four-component model of creativity

Answer 15

1. domain-relevant skills: technical expertise and factual knowledge
2. creativity-relevant processes: personality traits and work habits conducive to creativity
3. intrinsic motivation: passion and curiosity about the task
4. social environment: supportive contexts for creativity

Question 16

types of thinking

Answer 16

convergent and divergent

Question 17

convergent thinking

Answer 17

• narrowing down to a single correct answer
• relies on logic and prior knowledge
• often emphasised in formal education

Question 18

divergent thinking

Answer 18

• generating multiple solutions from a single starting point
• encourages exploration and innovative problem-solving

Question 19

heredity vs. environment

Answer 19

• intelligence and creativity stem from interactions between genetic predispositions and environmental factors
• cross-cultural differences highlight the role of beliefs, parental expectations, and attitudes toward education

Question 20

support for diverse needs

Answer 20

• recognize and nurture multiple intelligences and creative talents
• provide differentiated instructions tailored to individual strengths

Question 21

addressing biases

Answer 21

• ensuring assessments are inclusive and representative of all cultural backgrounds
• avoid over-categorizing students based on IQ or creative potential

Question 22

fostering creativity

Answer 22

• encourage curiosity and hands-on exploration
• provide open-ended tasks that allow for divergent thinking