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18.1.2: Triarchic Theory of Intelligence

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    Learning Objectives
    1. Differentiate between analytical, creative, and practical intelligence with relevant examples.

    Triarchic Theory of Intelligence

    An alternative view of intelligence is presented by Sternberg (1997; 1999). Sternberg offers three types of intelligences. Sternberg provided background information about his view of intelligence in a conference, where he described his frustration as a committee member tasked with selecting graduate students for a psychology program. He was concerned that there was too much emphasis placed on aptitude test scores (which we will discuss later in the chapter). He believed that there were other, less easily measured, qualities necessary for success in a graduate program and the world of work. Aptitude test scores indicate the first type of intelligence-academic.

    1. Analytical (componential), sometimes described as academic, includes the ability to solve problems of logic, verbal comprehension, vocabulary, and spatial abilities.
    2. Creative (experiential): the ability to apply newly found skills to novel situations.
    3. Practical (contextual): the ability to use common sense and to know what is called for in a situation. 21

    Analytical

    Two girls sitting on grass back to back reading books.
    Figure \(\PageIndex{1}\): Reading supports analytical intelligence Image licensed under CC0.

    Creative

    Black and white close up of child's hands manipulating legos
    Figure \(\PageIndex{2}\): Building with shows creative intelligence Image licensed under CC0.

    Practical

    Three kids throwing water on each other outside
    Figure \(\PageIndex{3}\): Navigating social settings is practical intelligence Image by Steven Depolo is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

    References, Contributors and Attributions

    21. Lifespan Development – Module 6: Middle Childhood by Lumen Learning references Psyc 200 Lifespan Psychology by Laura Overstreet, which is licensed under CC BY 3.0 (modified by Dawn Rymond)

    This page titled 18.1.2: Triarchic Theory of Intelligence is shared under a CC BY-NC 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Heather Carter.