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Briefly describe Terman's (1916) contribution to the history of psychometric testing.

User Binco
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Final answer:

Lewis Terman enhanced Alfred Binet's early intelligence testing work by standardizing and norming the test, pioneering the use of IQ tests in education and military settings, and contributing significantly to the field of psychometric testing.

Step-by-step explanation:

Lewis Terman's 1916 contribution to the field of psychometric testing was pivotal. Building upon the initial work of Alfred Binet, Terman, a Stanford professor, sought to enhance the intelligence testing procedure for a more accurate assessment of children's intellectual capabilities. Recognizing its potential, Terman standardized Binet's test and normed it, ensuring consistent administration across a representative sample, which resulted in scores forming a bell curve. This process aimed to identify school children who might struggle academically, aiding in the development of tailored educational strategies. Terman's approach emphasized the importance of a reliable and standardized mechanism for psychometric evaluation, which catalyzed the use of IQ testing in educational and later military settings, as evidenced by the Army Alpha and Beta tests during World War I.

User Keymone
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