Practical intelligence, also known as common sense or street smarts, is a type of cognitive ability that involves the ability to apply knowledge and skills to real-world situations and problems. It is often contrasted with academic intelligence, which refers to the ability to perform well on tests and other measures of cognitive ability.
Practical intelligence is thought to be related to the function of the frontal and prefrontal cortices in the brain, and it is generally considered to be an important predictor of success in real-world settings. It is also believed to play a role in creativity and innovation, as it enables individuals to generate new ideas and approaches to problems that are grounded in the practicalities of real-world situations.
There are several ways to measure practical intelligence, including aptitude tests and real-world problem-solving tasks. These tests often assess skills such as problem-solving, decision-making, and adaptability in real-world situations.
Practical intelligence is thought to be influenced by both genetics and environmental factors. Research has shown that there is a moderate to high degree of heritability for practical intelligence, meaning that it tends to run in families. However, environmental factors, such as education, life experiences, and exposure to new situations, can also play a role in the development and enhancement of practical intelligence.
It’s important to note that practical intelligence is just one aspect of cognitive ability, and it is not the only determinant of success or intelligence. Other important factors include fluid intelligence, crystallized intelligence, and emotional intelligence.
Overall, practical intelligence is a valuable cognitive ability that plays a crucial role in success in real-world settings. It is a complex and multifaceted aspect of human cognition that is influenced by both genetics and environmental factors.