Introduction to Intelligence and Creativity

What you’ll learn to do: describe intelligence theories and intelligence testing

Rubik's cube

Intelligence is a complex characteristic of cognition. Many theories have been developed to explain what intelligence is and how it works. There’s Sternberg’s triarchic theory of intelligence that focuses on analytical, creative, and practical intelligence, but there is also Gardner’s theory which holds that intelligence is comprised of many factors. Still other theories focus on the importance of emotional intelligence. Which of the theories is most correct? And how can intelligence even be measured?

Watch It

This CrashCourse video gives a good overview of these topics:

You can view the transcript for “Controversy of Intelligence: Crash Course Psychology #23” here (opens in new window).

Learning Objectives

  • Explain the triarchic theory of intelligence
  • Explain the multiple intelligences theory
  • Define creativity, divergent, and convergent thinking
  • Describe the development of IQ tests, their purposes, and benefits
  • Explain the bell curve, and how IQ is measured
  • Describe how genetics and the environment affect intelligence
  • Describe common learning disabilities