Archive for ‘IQ’

January 16, 2007

High IQ is not equal to Intelligent…

Learning begins with an appreciation of our differences and realities. Everyone has heard of IQ tests, and many assume that they are the best way of assessing intelligence. It now emerges that this is a very narrow test indeed, so its persistence is highly misleading. We need to unlearn about IQ importance.

Howard Gardner writes of multiple intelligences, arguing that we have at least seven different ways of knowing the world. Instead of merely the logico-mathematical intelligence that is measured in standard IQ tests, Gardner talks about other, equally valid intelligences. They are language, spatial representation, musical thinking, kinesthetic intelligence, interpersonal and intra-personal intelligences. In a world obsessed with the standard IQ model, we run the risk of demotivating intelligent people who fail a limited and fairly arbitrary but ubiquitous test. Furthermore, those who pass may be given undue accolades, and be closed to further learning.

We all use our very different ways of relating to the world when solving the problems that we have; in other words, we all have different approaches to solving problems. It is also now widely recognized that we have different learning styles , learning modalities (visual, auditory and kinesthetic) and creativity styles.

unless we use different approaches when engaging different people(E.I), we may not hardly be heard, let alone hope to communicate in any meaningful way. Everyone has strengths in one or more of these seven areas, which combine to become part of that person’s individual reality. If we find that we cannot easily understand or like someone, by speaking to another of their `selves’ we can find talents and gifts we little suspected. This is true empathy; consciously learning about their world and dealing in their reality.

if interested: Emotional Intelligence

December 18, 2006

for better IQ.. if that matters

was reading an article about IQ. IQ(Intelligence Quotient) is ratio of tested mental age to chronological age, usually expressed as a quotient multiplied by 100.

I always thought- having good IQ proves nothing and does not means success, because :

  • I never to manage to score high. I loved it when E.I. book was published (wow, now I have offical study/excuse).
  • Test pattern sure does have a problem since recent IQ test asked which of four fruits was different. It was the one with more than one seed; but what if you were not familiar with these fruits? Obviously this test is culturally biased. You are assumed to have certain knowledge, yet you are being tested for intelligence, not knowledge. Similar rearranging words to name places, country, ocean,etc.. clearly this would be found thru method of elimination. clearly this a test-taking-ability. so a person bound to score higher than another person of equal intelligence who hasn’t learned simple techniques for scoring higher on multiple – choice tests.
  • Reality: Do we know IQ for Sachin Tendulkar? who cares? Now, good example is Laloo’s is new avatur. the man is doing what he doing by surrounding himself with intelligent people.

Ofcourse, an imperfect test is better than no test. I and may be you agreeing IQ test methods are not perfect doesnt prove anything. You are bound to ask my IQ scores and so do others with you. right?!

I noticed few interesting ‘to-do’ points from a study for better brainpower :

  • Good thinking habits: Just use a problem solving technique for several weeks and it will become a habit. Redesign everything you see for a while, and that will become a habit. You can develop many good thinking habits with some effort, and then be more resourceful effortlessly from that point on. Use the power of habit. may be you would want to start with Sudoku.
  • Learn a language: Learning a new language has been shown to halt the age-related decline in brain function. It also introduces your mind to new concepts and new ways of looking at things (in English we are afraid, whereas in Spanish we have fear). It is one of the best brain exercises.
  • Blog: Yes, that you read correctly ‘Blog’. Writing is good for your mind in a number of ways. It is a way to tell your memory what is important, so you’ll recall things more easily in the future. It is a way to clarify your thinking.
  • Ask questions: This is a great way to keep your brain in shape. Just get in the habit of asking questions often, even if it is only in your own mind.
  • Imaginary friends: Talking to and getting advice from characters in your mind can be a great way to access the information in your subconscious mind. Imagine a conversation with a person who has a lot of knowledge in the area you want advice in.
  • Talk: Talking is only good for the brain if you are actually exercising it, of course. Try explaining something that you don’t understand very well to a friend, though, and you’ll notice that the process of explaining will help you clarify your understanding.
  • Adjust your beliefs: Believe you are smarter, and you’ll become smarter.
  • Model others: Find others that are creative, intelligent, or very productive. Do what they do, and think what they think. (ofcourse, take advices NOT decisions)
  • Breath deep: More air in means more oxygen in the blood and therefore in the brain. Breath through your nose and you’ll notice that you use your diaphragm more, drawing air deeper into your lungs. Several deep breaths can also help to relax you, which is conducive to clearer thinking.
  • Sleep better: As long as you get a certain amount of sleep – probably a minimum of five hours – the quality seems to be more important than the quantity.
  • Sit up straight: Posture affects your thinking process. Prove it to yourself by doing math in your head while slouching, looking at the floor and letting your mouth hang open. Then do the mental math while sitting up straight, keeping your mouth closed and looking forward or slightly upwards. You’ll notice that it’s easier to think with the latter posture.
  • Food: Eat less, Eat breakfast, Olive oil is good, drink wine. Vitamin E, C(organe juice)