Intelligence measurement

 Measurement of intelligence

                Intelligence can be measured by using intelligence tests. They are standardized tools having acceptable reliability and validity. The intelligence tests are classified in two different ways:

                1. Classification based on the method of testing

                    (a) Individual tests – only one individual is tested at a time.

                 (b) Group tests – a group of individuals is tested at the same time.

             2.  Classification based on the medium of testing

                 (a) Verbal tests – they make use of language

                 (b) Non-verbal tests – they make use of some activity or performance

Classification based on the Method of Testing

                Based on the method of testing , intelligence tests are classified into two – individual tests and group tests.

                A. Individual Tests: Individual tests of intelligence are those tests that are administered to a single individual at a time. In this type of tests, the test material is presented by the examiner to the examinee in a face to face situation. Individual test may be either verbal or non-verbal type. The former makes use of language while the latter make use of some activity or performance. Indivi-dual tests can be better applied to young children and children below school age

Merits

1. It is suited for individuals who cannot read and write including small children

2. The tests can motivate the testee by means of praise and encouragement.

3. There is very little scope for cheating

Demerits

1. It is costly in terms of administration and time

2.  A trained person is required to administer the test

3. It is not free from the personal bias of the tester as it is administered in a face to face situation

B. Group Tests: A group test of intelligence is one that is administered to a group of individuals at a time. All the people in the group are given the same direction and have to perform the same activities. In almost all group tests, the items are placed together in separate sub-tests and usually it imposes time limits for each sub-tests. Group tests are also further divided into verbal and non-verbal tests based on the nature of content.

Merits

1. It is less costly in terms of administration and time

2. No trained examiners are required to administer the test

3. Group tests are scored more rigidly and more objectively than individual tests.

Demerits

1. It is unsuitable for individuals suffering from reading disability.

2. Speed and reading ability may influence the test scores.

3. Several formalities are observed in administration