Intelligence, and how we measure it, is very controversial. There are those who think that intelligence can be measured by a simple score on a math, science, reading or english test. This type of testing really hits home. It is a key contributor to the reason that we are currently attending this University. ACT and SAT testing is a major part of college admissions these days. But do these tests really tell us how "intelligent" a person is?
After reading chapter 9 and getting a little more information on the topic, i found that there are some better methods for analyzing someone's intelligence. The method that i found to better access someone's intelligence was the Triarchic Model. This model measures knowledge past the cramming and regurgitation that standard IQ, ACT, and SAT tests require. On top of factual knowledge, it gives proper representation to practical (street smarts) and creative knowledge. Practical knowledge is also called "tactic intelligence", which means it is knowledge about how to do something rather than knowledge about something. This is extremely important in applying factual knowledge to everyday situations. The 3rd wheel to this model is creativity. This is important to the intelligence model in that it accounts for the intelligence we need in order to find new and effective solutions to problems. All 3 are important factors in determining a persons intelligence, and without one of them, i don't think that all "knowledge" is accounted for. Do you think that colleges should change their admissions process in a way that tests for all 3 types of knowledge?
I agree that IQ tests can only determine so much. However, arguing in favor of college admissions, I believe that ACT and SAT scores are the best/most efficient determinant, that is currently available, for college success. Although your test results could be biased or skewed, on average, I think these scores are reliable enough to determine the lower and higher ends of the spectrum. And, although ACT and SAT scores are extremely important to college admissions, they clearly look at other factors before accepting students.