Recent Research in Intellectual Development: The Cattell-Horn-Carroll Theory

The development of intellect is a dynamic process influenced by children’s interactions with their environment and with peers, family members, teachers and other people in their lives (Lynch & Warner, 2013). From birth, infants are constantly inspecting their surroundings—sights, sounds and smells all play a part in the information they take in about the world around them. All caregivers have a unique opportunity to capitalize on children’s inborn curiosity and eagerness to learn when they organize homes or learning environments as well as plan experiences to enhance children’s cognitive development. A caregiver’s role might include:

• Sharing knowledge
• Asking questions
• Facilitating conversations and discussions one-on-one and in groups
• Providing opportunities for children’s interactions with others (Copple & Bredekamp 2009)

Experts in the field of early learning continue to debate the nature of intelligence. More recently, educational psychologist Kevin McGrew has developed the Cattell-Horn-Carroll (CHC) theory. McGrew and other researchers developed a model that describes 10 broad abilities of cognitive development (Lynch & Warner, 2013). Subsequent blogs will highlight these 10 broad abilities. Be sure to tune in next week!

Information in this blog has been adapted from: Lynch, Sharon A. and Warner, L. 2013. “How Adults Foster Young Children’s Intellectual Development.” In Young Children, Vol. 68, No. 2, 86-91. Washington, DC: NAEYC.

Copple, C. and Bredekamp, S. eds. 2009. Developmentally Appropriate Practice inEarly Childhood Programs Serving Children From Birth Through Age 8. 3rd ed. Washington, DC: NAEYC.