This week we are learning about a variety of theories of intelligence. Factor analysis is a group of statistical techniques designed to determine the existence of underlying relationships between two variables, such as test scores (Cohen & Swerdlik, 2018). Charles Spearman invented the two-factor theory. This theory hypothesizes the existence of a general intellectual ability factor (g) that is partially tapped by all other mental capacities (Cohen & Swerdlik, 2018). Within the two-factor theory of intelligence, g represents the portion of the variance that all intelligence tests have in common. The other elements of the variance are either specific components (s) or error components ( e ) (Cohen & Swerdlik, 2018).
Another theory of intelligence is Cattell-Horn’s two-factory theory. This theory was developed and modified to investigate cognitive abilities such as fluid intelligence (Gf) and crystallized intelligence (Gc) (Cohen & Swerdlik, 2018). Carroll’s three stratum theory, developed in 1977, consists of a three-layer process. In the process, g is measured as general intelligence, similar to the other models. Within the process, the second layer contains eight abilities. They are as follows: Crystallized intelligence (Gc), fluid intelligence (Gf) general memory and learning (Y), broad visual perception, (v), broad retrieval capacity (R), broad auditory perception (U), broad cognitive speediness (S), and process/decision speed (T) (Cohen & Swerdlik, 2018).
The Cattell-Horn and Carroll’s CHC theory investigates crystallized intelligence (Gc), quantitative knowledge (Gq), fluid intelligence (Gf), visual processing (Gv), and short-term memory (Gsm) (Cohen & Swerdlik, 2018). Luria’s model utilizes planning, attention, simultaneous, and successive processes (PASS). This model is used from birth to eighteen months of age and uses more of the mechanisms of how information is processed rather than what is processed (Cohen & Swerdlik, 2018).
The Standford-Binet Intelligence Scale (5th edition) is based on a point scale. This scale is organized into categories of subtests by items. This scale builds upon the Cattell-Horn model. (Cohen & Swerdlik, 2018). The Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (4th edition) is a combination of g factor and a two-factor model of intelligence. This model is built upon by the Cattel-Horn and Carroll’s CHC theory and is a combination of models blended. The Woodcock-Johnson test of Cognitive Abilities (4th edition) consists of three co-normed test batteries, Test of Achievement, Test of Cognitive Ability, and Test of Oral Language Ability (Cohen & Swerdlik, 2018). The Kaufman Assessment measures intelligence and achievement are developed for children of ages from two and a half to twelve and a half years old. This test is divided into two groups and is built upon the Luria’s model.
As a future BCBA, I believe the most beneficial model would be Luria’s model. Luria’s model investigates how information is processed rather than what information is processed. Within applied behavior analysis, we look at the function of the behavior and how sensory information and intelligence is being processed. This fits perfectly with applied behavior analysis. This model is one that can be used in support of my career.