Why Do People Still Rely on Stale IQ and SAT Cliches?

The ongoing reliance on the cliche that people who score high on IQ tests and SATs are inherently smart has become a pervasive belief, despite the largely comforting and unchallenging nature of such tests. This article aims to explore the roots of this cliche, the realities behind commonplace test scores, and why these tests have such a bad reputation in the academic and professional world.

The Casual Nature of IQ and SAT Tests

IQ and SAT tests are frequently criticized for their easy nature, which contributes to the widespread belief that they are reliable indicators of intelligence. Many test-takers have reported scoring highly, yet failing to achieve well in academic subjects. For instance, a 12-year-old who scores very high on an IQ test but fails English in high school may simply lack practice or struggle with verbal reasoning. The ease of these multiple-choice exams often leads to a negative perception of standardized testing, as they can be reasoned through with minimal effort.

Strategies Over Real Intelligence

Another common issue is that students who excel at tests like the SATs often do so with specific strategies rather than innate intelligence. A case in point is a student in an advanced class who left the first question unanswered because the word "evaluate" was misinterpreted as "add." This behavior indicates a gap between test-taking skills and actual understanding of subject matter, suggesting that some students may not be fully immersed in the material.

The Context and Institutionalization of Standardized Testing

The ease of multiple-choice tests has led to a common belief that standardized testing is a fair and accurate measure of intelligence. However, the context in which these tests are taken and the institutionalization of standardized testing is crucial to understanding their impact. Standardized tests are designed to be normalized, meaning they are applied to all individuals of a certain grade or age, regardless of their unique abilities and backgrounds.

This normalization is further institutionalized through a common curriculum that places high value on standardized knowledge. Students are taught to retain and apply this knowledge across different subjects and school districts, making these tests a common benchmark for academic performance. The widespread use of these tests means that they are a national concern, with serious implications for who can teach in schools and how to interpret these scores in different social contexts.

Interpreting Test Scores in Context

When interpreting test scores, it is important to consider the context in which the tests are taken. For example, certain concepts may be interpreted or misinterpreted based on the specific wording of the questions. Language can significantly affect how students understand and answer questions, highlighting the importance of careful test design.

Moreover, if a person scores below average or shows deficiencies, it is likely that they have struggled in the academic environment. This environment often emphasizes standardization and common curriculum, making it difficult for students who may have different learning styles or backgrounds to excel.

The Importance of Academic Scholarship

Lastly, it is essential to recognize the importance of academic scholarship and professional standards when interpreting test scores. Language and academic knowledge, when taken seriously, can provide a foundation for understanding and representing various concepts. However, in everyday use, language can be simplified to meet common needs, which may not always reflect the depth of academic scholarship.

Understanding the context and purpose of standardized tests is key to interpreting and applying these scores appropriately. Reports and guidelines from organizations like the College Board and the Association of Psychologists provide valuable insights into how to interpret test scores in the broader context of education and society.