IQ tests are important in that they have been used to ascertain the cognitive or mental capabilities of an individual. Critics have raised different arguments against the IQ tests. In this paper, I will discuss both the benefits and disadvantages of IQ testing.
Strengths of IQ Testing.
The IQ tests have proved critical in designing the kind of teaching that should be given to young children. With IQ testing, the teachers and the parents are able to identify those children that need to be placed in special education (Fagan, 2000). These children are separated and special attention is paid to them. This helps avoid the frustration and confusion that a parent may go through trying to understand the learning dynamics of their child. There are also those children that have IQ’s that are quite high in comparison to their peers. The teachers are able to take them to advanced education programs where they are also able to get the specialised attention that they need (Fagan, 1992).
Contrary to what IQ critics say, IQ tests are not really focused on the definition of intelligence but on the kind of teaching that these students can get. With the IQ scores, the parents and teachers are able to understand the strengths and weaknesses of a child. If a child scores highly in math and science, then the child can be groomed to enter the fields of medicine, research and engineering. The IQ tests help in educating children considering the natural talents and capabilities of the child (Morrison, Smith & Dow-Ehrensberger, 1995).
Weaknesses of IQ Testing.
The main problem with IQ tests is the definition of intelligence. It is presumed that intelligence can simply be measured by using a pen and paper. It is about logical questions.
However, people are gifted differently. An individual may have a low IQ when it comes to class work however the individual is highly gifted in music or sports. These are aspects that are not considered.
IQ tests do not test or appreciate certain characteristics of an individual that make it possible for them to be highly successful in this world. IQ tests do not have measurement parameters for the social abilities of an individual. How well does an individual interact with others who are around him? Is he able to network? What are the individual measures when it comes to critical areas such as self-discipline, motivation to succeed and attitude or disposition in life? These are critical in the future success of an individual.
Skills and knowledge are attributes gained on the job experience. These are not measured in IQ tests. An individual may have a high IQ however he has little skills and experience on the job while another person having average IQ has learnt a lot on the job. He has the practical know-how of handling the job. Employers may have to look beyond the IQ tests to get the kind of person who will deliver the results they want in the workplace. In IQ testing in children, it has been noted that the children’s IQ tests improve as one grows older and knowledge increases (Bentin, Hammer & Cahan, 1991).
The IQ test results are not consistent. They vary between one administrator and another which can be very confusing. One administrator give highly positive results while the other gives an average evaluation result. Reliance on a method or methodology that does not give consistent results is highly dangerous for an individual. They give different results for different results for people in different races and socioeconomic classes as they are not structured to take into consideration certain differences (Block & Dworkin, 1976).
There are those who have suggested that the reasons for the differences could be genetic, the physical environment before commencing education or the cultural features at home (Jensen, 1985). In certain cultures, there are things that the parents may not believe that their children should be taught bringing in differences in IQ tests. It does not necessarily mean that White children are superior or more intelligent (Peoples, Fagan, & Drotar, 1995). The focus by experts should be on the children’s formative years and the influences at home which could affect IQ scores (Fagan & Montie, 1988)
Conclusion
Are the IQ tests conclusive or can other measurement parameters be considered? There are different pros and cons of IQ tests and parents, teachers and even employers have to analyse and determine whether they are necessary to use or not.
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