It is made up of complicated, messy, chaotic situations . . . for which we'd better have the skills to cope. It means not just being able to solve a problem, but also recognizing that a problem exists in the first place, what that problem is and how much effort should be invested in solving it. Common sense is a component of this kind of intelligence, but so are curiosity, open-mindedness and sensitivity to one's surroundings. Their research also shows a low correlation between IQ and career success. And exercising good judgment, well, you are not born with that.
Researchers recommend several strategies.
Law and business schools often use a case-based approach to learning, presenting students with real or hypothetical situations that are ambiguous and call for them to detect as well as solve problems. Perkins and others say that elementary and secondary schools need to use some of those same teaching methods. Having a group of students work together on a task is also helpful, educators say, because in the real world they often will be required to think as part of a team. Internships, too, expose students to real-life puzzles and dilemmas. Several Washington area teachers say they strive to include such techniques.