Definition of intelligence test

The concept of intelligence tests can be traced back to the late 19th century when French psychologist Alfred Binet developed a diagnostic tool to help identify children with learning difficulties. Binet's initial intent was not to create an intelligence test, but rather to differentiate between children with intellectual impairment and normal cognitive development. In 1911, Binet's colleague Théodore Simon adapted the test to be used as a selection tool for school Entry in France. This marked the beginning of standardized intelligence tests, which were further refined in the early 20th century by psychologists like Lewis Terman in the United States. Terman, a Stanford professor, popularized the term "intelligence quotient" (IQ) to describe a numerical score derived from these tests. IQ scores were intended to provide an objective measure of cognitive ability, with higher scores indicating greater intelligence. Since then, intelligence tests have been used widely to evaluate cognitive abilities, identify learning disabilities, and aid in educational and occupational decision-making. However, the validity and reliability of intelligence tests have been subject to criticism and debate, with some experts arguing that IQ scores are culturally and socially biased and do not accurately reflect individual intelligence. In summary, the term "intelligence test" originated from the educational assessment tool developed by Binet and Simon to identify intellectual impairment, which was later adopted as a standardized test for school entry and intelligence measurement by psychologists like Terman.