The Binet versus the Point Scale method of measuring intelligence

Abstract

Critically compares the Binet and Yerkes Point Scales. These two differ in the method of: selecting tests of intelligence, standardization of the tests and measurement of the subject's responses. Binet scale was a multiple-group, age scale, while Yerkes was a single, graded test scale. The tests of Binet scale were varied, unrelated, internally standardized and inflexible while the Yerkes scale was graded, flexible and externally standardized. The measurements in case of Binet scale were qualitative, amenably to statistical treatment. Measurements for different ages were relatively incomparable in Binet scale, unlike the Yerkes. Both these scales used chronological age which was an unsafe method. A better method would be to use physiological age. Suggests that new tests must be developed which are standardized, have variable norms and can applied at any stage of development. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)