How Does the KBIT™ 2 Score Intelligence?

posted by Karen Quinn, The Testing Mom - June 28th, 2012

The Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test™ 2 is unique in the way it scores intelligence. Instead of more traditional methods, which have their disadvantages, the Kaufman™ exam tests both fluid and crystallized intelligence. Scoring both of these aspects gives a much more accurate picture of a test-taker’s mental capabilities. It also helps in determining the needs of individuals.

Fluid intelligence is often referred to as “natural,” or “innate” intelligence. It refers to how a person solves problems. This type of intelligence is rarely, if ever, affected by things like environment, education or culture. 

Crystallized intelligence, on the other hand, is a good representation of a person’s exposure to education. The crystallized intelligence portion of the KBIT™ 2 scores things which have been learned, such as basic skills.

Looking at these two separate elements of intelligence separately can give parents, teachers and caregivers a very thorough picture of an individual’s intelligence. Due to the KBIT™ 2’s twenty-minute time period, this thorough picture can be obtained much more quickly than with traditional, lengthy tests.