Triarchic Theory

By Robert Stenberg

Stenberg’s triarc
various processes that affect the performing of
cognitive tasks and consist of the information
processing skills that include intelligent
behavior. Stenberg explain these processes as an
elementary information process that operates
upon internal representation of objects or
symbols.

Stenberg Triarchic Theory of Intelligence

The triarchic theory of intelligence consists
of three sub theories:
1. Componential Sub Theory
The componential subtheory explains
that there are three primary
mechanism that people use to solve
problems:
 Metacomponents or executive
components, allow people to
choose the best plan of action
for solving a given problem
based on one’s skill set.
 Performance components let
people effectuate their plans using their existing skills and knowledge.
 Knowledge-acquisition components are the strategies that people use to
gain new skills that let them solve similar problems in the future.
2. Experiential Sub Theory
This experiential sub theory has to do with two important concepts
novelty and automation. When a person is presented with a novel or unfamiliar
problem, they need to use their intelligence to find new ways of solving that
problem. As an experience becomes more and more familiar, it shifts from novelty
to automation. Task that people have completed many times become automated,
requiring less conscious thought.
3. Contextual Sub Theory
That intelligence is intertwined with the individual’s environment.
Thus, intelligence is based on the way one functions in their everyday
circumstances, including one’s ability to a) adapt to one’s environment, b) select
the best environment for oneself, or c) shape the environment to better fit one’s
needs and desires.
People like me with contextual or practical intelligence have street smarts. I usually like
to solve problems that are relevant to my lives, I am not into dealing with theories or
abstract ideas, and I usually like to learn by doing, not reading.