A discussion of intelligence is presented and how intelligence should be properly defined. Some say intelligence
is the ability to solve problems, others say it is “book smarts,” however, the research suggests multiple theories
of intelligence. In contemporary society, intelligence is often inaccurately viewed as an IQ number, but rather
there are multiple types of intelligence that are factored into our current intelligence testing. It is important
that intelligence represents different skills sets, both verbal and nonverbal. Intelligence tests were initially
developed to identify individuals in need of help and support in their academic progress. Intelligence tests
typically take an individual’s respective scores and compare to a normative sample to gain a global score of
their overall intellectual ability. IQ scores typically fall within a bell curve shape, with 50% of individuals
falling into the average range. Over the last several decades, efforts have been made to adapt intelligence tests
to be more culturally fair and sensitive, given the different educational resources throughout the country and world.
There are many famous theorists associated with intelligence. Sternberg developed is triarchic theory of intelligence:
analytic, practical, and creative in 1988. Gardner developed a theory of multiple intelligences ranging from
musical intelligence to interpersonal intelligence. In each theory, the mix and interaction of nature and nurture
is present and discussed. However, the exact balance or impact of nature and nature on intelligence is still
unclear. Parenting can also have an impact on the genetic expression of intelligence, given exposure to other
cultures and forms of expression. It is also noted that determination, perseverance, and motivation are key factors
in success outside of intelligence.