Edward Thorndike

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Edward Thorndike

• 1874-1949

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Behaviorist

• Studied animal and human intelligence.
• Instrumental Conditioning.
• Learned behavior, tested on animals, puzzle box.
• Four general dimensions of abstract intelligence.
• Altitude, difficulty of tasks one can perform.
• Width, variety of tasks of a given difficulty.
• Area, function of width and altitude.
• Speed, number of tasks one can complete in a
  given time.

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• Law of Effect
• Responses to a situation that are followed by
  satisfaction are strengthened.
• Responses to a situation that are followed by
  discomfort are weakened.
• CAVD
• Intelligence test, measured intellectual level.
  Foundation of modern intelligence tests.
• Two most basic intelligences.
• Trial and Error
• Stimulus-Response Association

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Educational Impact
Thorndikes intelligence test, the CAVD laid the
foundation for modern IQ testing. Students who
are thought to have a learning disability are
tested to see if they qualify for assistance. A
combination of their scores from an IQ Test and
Achievement Test determine if they are eligible
or not. Constructed a scale to measure students
handwriting.