Week Two

Question 1

Why did Wechsler believe it was important to measure a wide array of mental abilities?

Answer 1

A: Wechsler believed that intelligence tests should reflect the complexity of intelligence by assessing various cognitive functions beyond a single score.

Question 2

What are the WAIS-IV and WISC-V tests?

Answer 2

A: The WAIS-IV (for ages 16-90) and the WISC-V (for ages 6-16) are individually administered intelligence tests that provide a full-scale IQ score based on four subscales: verbal comprehension, perceptual reasoning, working memory, and processing speed.

Question 3

What is split-half reliability?

Answer 3

A: Split-half reliability measures the consistency of a test by splitting it into two halves and comparing the results from each half.

Question 4

What is the psychometric approach to understanding intelligence?

Answer 4

using tests and statistical methods to identify underlying factors like verbal and spatial abilities.

Question 5

What was Alfred Binet’s contribution to intelligence testing?

Answer 5

Alfred Binet created the first practical intelligence tests, aimed at measuring children’s mental abilities to identify those needing educational support.

Question 6

Who was Sir Francis Galton, and what was his contribution to intelligence testing?

Answer 6

Sir Francis Galton developed an early approach to quantifying mental ability, emphasizing hereditary factors in intelligence.