Conceptions of Intelligence in an Academic Community

Abstract

A phenomenological stance is adopted in this inquiry into the concept of intelligence. The term intelligence is discussed as a uniquely Western concept that has been defined and refined, with significant implications for people in educational settings. A brief critical literature review includes discussion of some influential models of human thought and intelligence measurement and their application in school settings. Three practicing University of Hawaii at Manoa professors are engaged individually in reflective conversations, during which they discuss their notions of intelligence together with the researcher. From their shared conversations, meanings emerge which are expressed here in separate descriptive interpretations for each professor. The emergent understandings are intended to explore and illuminate some current conceptions of intelligence in an academic setting. From these descriptions educators and researchers may recognize relevant meanings for themselves regarding the improvement of the school learning situation.