Question

Some psychologists make the distinction between _____ intelligence, which reflects the ability to think logically, reason abstractly, and solve problems, and _______ intelligence, which is the accumulation of information, knowledge, and skills that people have learned through experience and education.

Short answer

The two types of intelligence described are 'fluid intelligence' and 'crystallized intelligence'.

Step-by-step solution

Identify Type of Intelligence

The first form of intelligence described in the question is associated with logical thinking, abstract reasoning and problem solving. This kind of intelligence is related to the mental abilities and processes such as solving novel problems, identifying patterns, and abstract thinking. In psychology, this is referred to as 'fluid intelligence.'

Identify Second Type of Intelligence

The second intelligence type given in the question is based on the accumulation of information, knowledge, and skills that people learn through experiences and education. This implies intelligence that is associated with knowledge, facts, and skills acquired over time. In the realm of psychology, this type of intelligence is known as 'crystallized intelligence.'

Key concepts

Fluid Intelligence

Fluid intelligence is the capacity to think quickly and reason flexibly in order to solve new problems without relying on past experiences and knowledge. It's about being adaptable in your thinking, spotting patterns, and working with abstract concepts. Think of it as the raw processing power of your brain. As students encounter new types of math problems or scientific theories, it's their fluid intelligence that helps them understand the principles that are not based on rote learning.

Fluid intelligence is crucial for abstract reasoning, which is the ability to understand complex concepts that do not have a concrete, physical form. For example, understanding the nuances of social dynamics or solving a logic puzzle relies heavily on this type of intelligence. However, it's worth noting that fluid intelligence tends to peak in young adulthood and can decline with age, hence the importance of continually challenging your brain with new learning experiences.

Crystallized Intelligence

Crystallized intelligence, in contrast to fluid intelligence, is the accumulation of knowledge, skills, and experience that one gathers over a lifetime. It grows as individuals learn more and includes factual knowledge, vocabulary and language skills, and the ability to apply the knowledge and skills to solve problems. It's what students use when they draw upon historical data to write an essay or apply formulas in physics that they've learned and memorized.

Unlike fluid intelligence, crystallized intelligence can continue to develop with age as one accumulates more knowledge and expertise in different fields. Activities like reading, engaging in conversation, and learning new skills can all contribute to the growth of crystallized intelligence. This form of intelligence is invaluable for tasks that require expertise or long-term strategic thinking.

Abstract Reasoning

Abstract reasoning refers to the ability to analyze information, detect patterns and relationships, and solve problems on a complex, thought-based level. It allows individuals to understand concepts that are not 'concrete' or directly observable. This kind of reasoning is associated with fluid intelligence. A student exercising abstract reasoning might encounter a mathematical function and predict its behavior without relying on a specific example.

In mathematics, abstract reasoning is key for understanding theoretical concepts like algebra, where one uses letters to represent numbers in equations. To develop this skill, it's recommended to engage in exercises that push you to think beyond the obvious, like chess or certain word games that require forging connections between seemingly unrelated ideas.

Problem Solving

Problem-solving is a fundamental skill that combines both fluid and crystallized intelligence. It involves identifying an issue, generating possible solutions, and implementing the most effective one. This process often requires a thorough understanding of underlying principles, as well as the creativity to apply them in novel ways.

Developing problem-solving skills is not just about memorizing procedures; it's about understanding the 'why' behind the steps. For instance, in mathematics, one may learn a formula and use it to solve a problem. However, truly effective problem-solving requires understanding why the formula works and being able to adapt it to a variety of problems. This adaptability reflects fluid intelligence, while the use of learned techniques and formulas demonstrates crystallized intelligence. To enhance problem-solving abilities, students should tackle a wide range of challenges that stimulate both forms of intelligence, pushing them to apply known strategies in new situations and to think on their feet when faced with the unfamiliar.