Psychology · Ch 1 — Variations in Psychological Attributes
Triarchic Theory of Intelligence
Triarchic Theory of Intelligence
The Triarchic Theory of Intelligence
Robert Sternberg proposed the triarchic theory of intelligence in 1985. He defined intelligence as “the ability to adapt, to shape and select environment to accomplish one’s goals and those of one’s society and culture.” This definition is important because it moves beyond the classroom — intelligence, for Sternberg, is about how well a person interacts with the world around them.
The theory identifies three basic types of intelligence: componential, experiential, and contextual. Each type represents a different way of engaging with information and the environment.
Componential (Analytical) Intelligence
Componential intelligence is the analysis of information to solve problems. People high in this ability think analytically and critically, and they tend to succeed in school. This type of intelligence has three components, each with a distinct function:
- Knowledge acquisition component — responsible for learning and acquiring the ways of doing things.
- Meta or higher-order component — involves planning: deciding what to do and how to do it.
- Performance component — involves actually carrying out the actions.
In short, componential intelligence is about breaking problems down, planning a solution, and executing it. It is what traditional IQ tests and school exams mostly measure.
Experiential (Creative) Intelligence
Experiential intelligence involves using past experiences creatively to solve novel problems. It is reflected in creative performance. People high in this aspect integrate different experiences in an original way to make new discoveries and inventions. They can quickly identify which information is crucial in a given situation.
This is not about repeating learned routines — it is about applying what you already know to unfamiliar situations in a fresh, inventive manner.
Contextual (Practical) Intelligence
Contextual intelligence involves the ability to deal with environmental demands encountered on a daily basis. It is often called ‘street smartness’ or ‘business sense’. People high in this aspect can:
- Adapt to their present environment.
- Select a more favourable environment than the existing one.
- Modify the environment to fit their needs.
Because of these abilities, such people tend to be successful in life, even if they do not excel in academic settings.
Sternberg’s triarchic theory represents the information-processing approach to understanding intelligence. It focuses on how people think and solve problems, not just on how much they know.
Activity: On the ‘Practical’ Track
The textbook includes an activity to help you reflect on practical intelligence. Imagine you have just been admitted to a school or college and will take three examinations during the year. You sincerely want high marks. Rank the following actions in order of how likely you are to do them:
- Attend classes regularly. …