Successful Intelligence: How Practical and Creative Intelligence Determine Success in Life

If Sternberg is right, IQ tests measure only ""inert intelligence,"" academic knowledge that does not necessarily lead to goal-directed action or real-world problem-solving. Professor of psychology and education at Yale, he argues that a different type of brain power, ""successful intelligence,"" determines one's ability to cope in career and in life. ""Successfully intelligent"" people capitalize on their strengths and correct or compensate for their weaknesses; self-motivating and flexible in their work style, they create their own opportunities, actively seek out role models, recognize and accurately define problems and know when to persevere. Of particular interest is Sternberg's contention that successful intelligence can be nurtured and developed in our schools by providing students with curricula that will challenge their creative and practical capabilities, not just their analytical skills. Although successful intelligence, as defined here, eventually comes to sound like a catch-all category for positive mental habits, this insightful, savvy guide will help readers avoid self-sabotage and translate thought into action. BOMC and QPB alternates. (Oct.)