The structure of child intelligence: cognitive development and differentiation

Main Article Content

Ana Azevedo Martins
Ana Filipa Alves
Leandro Da Silva Almeida

Abstract

Despite the controversy, intelligence is considered one of the best predictors of learning
and (in) academic success. Some authors have considered the intelligence resulting from a
the only general factor underlying all cognitive outcomes and considered the main explanatory source of individual differences. However, current literature has been proposing a
of the intellectual structure, considering it composed by a fluid intelligence and by cognitive abilities developed from the process of socialization and associated with interests and experiences.
With this study we intend to verify the presence of the factor g in a battery of tests that evaluate cognitive functions. The Cognitive Competence Scale for Children
(ECCOs 4/10) to a sample of 360 Portuguese children, aged 5, 7 and 9, attending education
Preschool and the 1st Cycle of Basic Education. The results point to the predominant presence of of a general factor, however, other factors seem to take part in explaining the variance,
gaining some cognitive specificity in this age group. Some considerations about indifferentiation of cognitive abilities and on the relevance of intelligence assessment in learning are discussed in this study.

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How to Cite
Azevedo Martins, A., Filipa Alves, A., & Da Silva Almeida, L. (2015). The structure of child intelligence: cognitive development and differentiation. International Journal of Developmental and Educational Psychology. Revista INFAD De Psicología., 1(1), 57–66. https://doi.org/10.17060/ijodaep.2015.n1.v1.253
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Articles
Author Biographies

Ana Azevedo Martins, Universidade do Minho

Instituto de Educação, Universidade do Minho

Ana Filipa Alves, Universidade do Minho

Universidade do Minho

Leandro Da Silva Almeida, Universidade do Minho

Universidade do Minho

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