The Use ofIQandMAas Measures of Learning Rate with Fluid and Crystallized Intelligence

Abstract

Summary Weir and Zigler have opposing hypotheses concerning the use of IQ or MA as the best measure of learning rate. This study with 90 children sought to determine whether IQ or MA was the best predictor of learning rate on a dimension-abstracted oddity task. Cattell and Horn's distinction between fluid ability (Gf) and crystallized ability (Gc) was used as the model of intelligence; WISC-R Digit-Span and Vocabulary subtests were used to assess Gf and Gc respectively. IQ was the best predictor of problem-solving ability with Gf; the converse was true for Gc. Results show that whether MA or IQ is the best indicator of learning rate depends upon what type of intelligence is considered. MA-IQ, type of intelligence, and learning relationships are more complex than previously hypothesized.