IQ Variation & Distribution

In this video I describe variation in IQ scores and the distribution of IQ scores in the general population. IQ scores follow a normal distribution with a mean of 100 and a standard deviation of about 15 points. Knowing IQ … Read More

History of Intelligence Testing

In this video I briefly describe the history of intelligence testing including the work of Sir Francis Galton, Alfred Binet, Theodore Simon, William Stern, Lewis Terman, and David Wechsler. I also discuss the concepts of mental age, ratio IQ, deviation … Read More

Reliability of Assessments

In this video I explain the difference between validity and reliability and then describe several ways of assessing reliability including split-half reliability, test-retest reliability, equivalent-form reliability, and the related concept of standardization. Don’t forget to subscribe to the channel to … Read More

Assessing Assessments – Types of Validity

In this video I explain how we assess the validity of assessments that have been created for a particular property (such as intelligence). There are several types of validity that can be assessed including construct validity, face validity, content validity, … Read More

Assessing Intelligence

In this video I introduce psychometrics, the study and design of testing for traits and abilities. I describe the difference between power tests and speed tests for assessing intelligence and the importance of differentiating people in order to have a … Read More

How Should We Define Intelligence?

In this video I discuss a number of ways of thinking about intelligence and determining which skills should be considered part of intelligence. I briefly describe Louis Leon Thurstone’s primary mental abilities, Howard Gardner’s multiple intelligence theory, Robert Sternberg’s Triarchic … Read More

What is Intelligence?

In this video I introduce the concept of intelligence and the difficulties of defining and measuring intelligence. I mention the tendency toward reification when thinking about IQ scores and the importance of remembering that intelligence is a hypothetical construct, not … Read More

Types of Test Designs

In designing an intelligence assessment, I may want to know the level of difficulty that someone is capable of solving. In this case, I would probably look at whether a person is able to solve a particularly difficult puzzle or … Read More

Intelligence Resources

On this page you’ll find a number of resources for understanding intelligence, including ways of defining intelligence, testing, and the role of genes and environment in shaping intelligence. If I’ve missed a good resource, please share it in the comments … Read More

Key Terms for Intelligence

Download a free pdf of this key terms list here: Intelligence-Key-Terms Find explanations and examples of all of these key terms and more here: Master Introductory Psychology: Complete Edition         reification   Charles Spearman   factor analysis   … Read More