The Stanford-Binet test is a examination meant to gauge intelligence through five factors of cognitive ability. These five factors include fluid reasoning, knowledge, quantitative reasoning, visual-spatial processing and working memory. Both verbal and nonverbal responses are measured. Each of the five factors is given a weight and the combined score is often reduced to a ratio known commonly as the intelligence quotient, or IQ.
How reliable is the Stanford-Binet test?
The Stanford-Binet test is among the most reliable standardized tests currently used in education. It has undergone many validity tests and revisions throughout its century-long history, and while there are undoubtedly a few issues with the assessment, most results are treated as accurate. That is, individuals with high scores are usually gifted, and those with low Stanford-Binet test scores often face some sort of cognitive disability.
Origins of the Stanford-Binet Test
The Stanford-Binet Test traces its roots to the Binet-Simon Scale, French device for identifying levels of intelligence. The Binet-Simon Scale was developed by Alfred Binet and his student Theodore Simon. French education laws were in flux at the time and Binet was approached by a governmental commission. The commission wanted a device to detect children that possessed notably below-average levels of intelligence for their age.