Notes: Thurstone Group Factor Theory of Intelligence | Child Development and Pedagogy for CTET Preparation - CTET & State TET PDF Download

Thrustone’s Theory of Intelligence

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Thurstone's Multi-Factor Theory of Intelligence is based on the fundamental concepts and methods used in Spearman's Two-Factor Theory of Intelligence. However, Thurstone refined Spearman's factor analysis technique by incorporating advanced statistical methods, such as factor analysis and matrix algebra, to obtain a more detailed understanding of human intelligence. He aimed to dissect the structure of cognitive abilities by focusing on specific skill-based factors, rather than assuming a single overarching intelligence factor.

Thurstone's Research Approach

Seven Primary Mental Abilities

1. The Numerical Factor

• This aspect pertains to an individual's proficiency in executing rapid and accurate numerical calculations.
• It can be assessed by evaluating how swiftly and precisely a person solves arithmetic problems.

2. The Verbal Factor

• This factor denotes the capability to comprehend and utilize various words and sentences within a language.
• Proficiency in this skill can be measured through vocabulary assessments, word jumble exercises, and verbal or reading comprehension tests.

3. The Space Factor

• The Space Factor measures how well a person can visualize and manipulate objects in space, whether real or imaginary.
• This skill involves understanding the relationships between different objects and their positions in space.
• Tests designed to assess the Space Factor often include a variety of puzzles and tasks that require spatial reasoning, such as:
• Solving puzzles that involve fitting shapes together or completing patterns.
• Recognizing and understanding different geometric shapes and their properties.
• Identifying the correct mirror image of an object, which tests the ability to visualize how an object would look when reflected.
• Selecting the right image of an object when it is rotated at different angles, requiring the ability to mentally rotate objects in space.

4. Memory

• Memory refers to the capacity to quickly remember and retain various concepts or phenomena for an extended period.
• It involves not only the initial recall of information but also the ability to hold onto this information over time.
• Memory tests, such as the learning of nonsense syllables, are used to evaluate this ability.
• Several factors influence the ability to recall concepts during examinations, including:
• Memory capacity, which is the amount of information that can be stored and recalled.
• Stress levels during exams, as high stress can negatively impact memory recall.
• Preparation methods, which can affect how well information is retained and recalled during tests.

5. Verbal Fluency/Word Fluency Factor

• Verbal fluency refers to the ability to quickly produce a series of distinct words or sentences.
• Individuals with strong verbal fluency are likely to excel in tasks that require rapid word generation.
• Conversely, those with poor verbal fluency may find such tasks challenging.
• This factor has a significant impact on a person's overall communication skills.
• Assessments of verbal fluency typically involve prompting participants to swiftly think of words that start or end with a specific letter.

6. Inductive Reasoning Factor

• Inductive reasoning is the capability to derive general concepts from specific instances.
• This skill is often evaluated through tests featuring number series, word series, and word or number classification tasks.
• Inductive reasoning assessments may require participants to identify an appropriate number or image based on a given sequence of numbers or images.

7. Perceptual Speed Factor

• The perceptual speed factor measures how quickly and accurately a person can recognize and compare images, numbers, or letters.
• This skill is crucial for tasks like proofreading, where attention to detail and speed are important.
• To evaluate perceptual speed, researchers use various tests, such as:
• Quick recognition of pictures.
• Identifying and crossing out specific letters within a set of numbers.
• Locating specific words within paragraphs of text.

8. The Deductive Reasoning Factor

• This factor assesses the ability to understand a specific situation or idea based on a broader principle.
• There are various aptitude tests designed to evaluate a person's deductive reasoning skills, which involve a series of statements.
• The individual taking the test must select the most appropriate logical conclusion based on the given statements.

9. Problem-Solving Ability Factor

• This factor measures a person's capability to tackle different general or aptitude-related problems.
• It can be assessed by looking at how individuals respond to various hypothetical situations.
• The emphasis is on their ability to draw logical conclusions from these scenarios.

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Spearman’s Theory of Intelligence vs Thurstone’s Theory of Intelligence

• Hans Eysenck, a British psychologist known for his research on intellectual development and personality, highlighted the differences in the conclusions drawn by Thurstone and Spearman.
• The disagreement stems from the distinct research methods employed in both theories.
• Firstly, the sample populations differed:
  • Spearman's research focused on random individuals, primarily children.
  • Thurstone's sample was limited to students.
• The second reason lies in the different types of mental tests used:
  • Spearman's tests were varied; had they been similar, the "s" factor (specific ability) might have overlapped, leading to greater correlations among variables.
  • Thurstone's tests were almost identical.
• Thurstone suggested that the seven primary mental abilities are independent.
• However, in his testing, he could not demonstrate the separateness of these abilities; instead, he identified the presence of the g factor.
• Through statistical analysis, he reconciled this contradiction by proposing the coexistence of a general factor and seven specific mental abilities.
• This understanding paved the way for other psychologists to develop various hierarchical and multiple intelligence theories.
• Therefore, it is incorrect to assert that Thurstone's theory contradicts Spearman's notion of general intelligence in his two-factor theory.