Testing in the Arts: Aesthetic Perception is a Part of Human Intelligence

Authors

Warren Sylvester Smith, Pennsylvania State University

Abstract

Simply stated like this , who would argue about it? The recognition of forms and patterns - visual or aural - the sensitive distinction among colors, the interpretation of movement or gesture - all of these are patently human accomplishments , and mastery of them is generally recognized as evidence of a kind of superiority. The statement would seem more commonplace than revolutionary.

But, as with many a principle honored in the abstract, putting it into educational practice would be revolutionary. Although the notion of measuring intelligence is no longer fashionable, our aptitude and achievement tests do imply two major facets of intelligence: quantitative and verbal.

Recommended Citation

Smith, Warren Sylvester (1976) "Testing in the Arts: Aesthetic Perception is a Part of Human Intelligence," Perspectives (1969-1979): Vol. 8: No. 2, Article 7.
Available at: https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/perspectives/vol8/iss2/7