Engaging Intelligence

Intelligence should not be considered merely a trait of individuals. Rather, intelligence is best conceived of as the product of a dynamic process involving individual competences and the values and opportunities afforded by society. In America today, the conception of intelligence, and concomitant forms of schooling and assessment, ought to be modified to enable young individuals to assume meaningful adult roles in society. Formal schooling ought to be complemented by apprenticeships in the community, and assessment should be refashioned to take into account a far wider range of competences. Finally, assessment vehicles ought to provide information that helps individuals to enhance their cognitive competences in authentic domains of knowledge.