Question

Discussed below are elements of triarchic theory. Choose the correct options from the statements given below:
(A) The triarchic theory of intelligence was given by Howard Gardner
(B) According to this theory, intelligence is the ability to adapt, to shape and select environment to accomplish one's goals.
(C) There are three basic types of intelligence: componential, contextual, and experiential
(D) Componential intelligence may also be called street smartness or business sense
(E) Experiential or creative intelligence is involved in using past experiences creatively to solve novel problems

• A. (A), (C) and (D) only
• B. (B), (C) and (D) only
• C. (B), (C) and (E) only
• D. (A), (B) and (C) only

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The triarchic theory of intelligence, proposed by Robert Sternberg, encompasses three components of intelligence rather than Howard Gardner's multiple intelligences theory. According to Sternberg, intelligence is the ability to adapt, shape, and select environments to achieve one's goals. The three types of intelligence according to this theory are: 

• Componential Intelligence: This involves analytical skills and the ability to solve problems using logic and analysis. However, it should not be confused with "street smartness" or "business sense," which are colloquial terms often describing practical intelligence, more closely aligned with contextual intelligence.
• Contextual Intelligence: This is often referred to as "street smartness" or "business sense," as it involves the ability to adapt to and thrive in various contextual situations.
• Experiential or Creative Intelligence: This refers to how well one can use prior experience in novel ways to adapt and tackle new problems effectively. It emphasizes creativity and innovation in applying existing knowledge to new situations.

Considering the statements provided:

• Statement (A) is incorrect as the triarchic theory was proposed by Robert Sternberg, not Howard Gardner.
• Statement (B) is correct as it aligns with Sternberg's definition of intelligence.
• Statement (C) is correct; it accurately describes the three types of intelligence in the triarchic theory.
• Statement (D) is incorrect; "street smartness" more closely aligns with contextual intelligence, not componential.
• Statement (E) is correct as it properly describes experiential or creative intelligence.

The accurate selection among the given options is: (B), (C) and (E) only.

Answer 2

Here’s the evaluation of each statement based on Robert Sternberg’s triarchic theory of intelligence:

(A) False: The triarchic theory of intelligence was proposed by Robert Sternberg, not Howard Gardner. Gardner is known for his theory of multiple intelligences, which is different from Sternberg's triarchic model.

(B) True: Sternberg’s triarchic theory defines intelligence as the ability to adapt, shape, and select environments to achieve goals. This highlights intelligence as a dynamic process, involving interaction with the environment.

(C) True: The triarchic theory includes three types of intelligence:

Componential (analytical): Involves problem-solving and analytical thinking.

Contextual (practical): Involves the ability to adapt to or shape environments, often called street smarts.

Experiential (creative): Involves using past experiences to solve novel problems and come up with creative solutions.

(D) False: Componential intelligence refers to analytical thinking and not street smarts or business sense. Contextual intelligence is often referred to as practical intelligence or street smarts, which relates to handling everyday situations effectively.

(E) True: Experiential intelligence involves the ability to apply past experiences creatively to solve new or novel problems, showcasing creativity and the ability to think outside the box.

These points clarify the triarchic model's emphasis on various aspects of intelligence, including analytical, practical, and creative skills.