Testing intelligence focuses on a learner’s ability to reason, solve novel problems, process information, and identify patterns. Examples include IQ tests, matrix reasoning tasks, or tests of working memory. Intelligence assessments aim to measure potential or cognitive processing, not what a person has been directly taught.

Testing for knowledge, on the other hand, measures what learners have already learned—facts, skills, concepts, and content from instruction. Examples include quizzes, exams, or performance tasks in specific subjects like math, reading, or science.

When each is appropriate

Intelligence testing is appropriate for identifying learning needs, cognitive strengths, or possible disabilities (e.g., SPED evaluations). It becomes inappropriate when used to label students, stream them unfairly, or make high-stakes decisions like admissions. Knowledge testing is appropriate for informing instruction, checking mastery, and giving feedback. It becomes inappropriate when the test is culturally biased, too narrow, or used as the sole measure of learning