。A study from Frontiers in Psychology shows that the average IQ of college students has been declining in recent decades, from 139 to 102. The result raises concerns about the level of university education. However, from another point of view, this is also the result of the popularization of education. This article will describe the findings in detail and provide some reflections and recommendations from the perspectives of teachers, employers, and students.
According to research data, from 1939 to 2022, the average IQ of college students dropped from 139 to 102, an average decrease of 02 points. This result is shocking and goes against the "Flynn effect" of rising IQs that previous studies have found. Researchers believe that the reason for the decline in IQ is mainly the inevitable result of the decline in the overall IQ level of students due to the popularization of university education. With the passage of time, more and more ordinary people are entering universities for higher education, resulting in a gradual average IQ distribution among college students. It also means a decline in the standard of college graduation and a depreciation of degrees, as everyone now has the opportunity to earn a degree.
In addition, questions have been raised about the decline in the IQ of college students. They argue that this finding only shows a decline in the collective average IQ, not that college students are getting dumber. Conversely, the higher the popularity of education, the higher the collective average IQ.
In the face of the decline in the IQ of college students, the researchers put forward some reflections and suggestions. First, universities and faculty need to realize that today's students are no longer exceptional talents, but are mostly ordinary people, and therefore need to adjust curriculum and academic attainment standards to better meet the needs of students.
Second, employers need to change their mindset and not judge a person's IQ and ability based solely on academic qualifications. A degree does not fully represent a person's overall quality, and other factors such as practical work experience and ability need to be comprehensively considered.
At the same time, students need to be aware that entering university is no longer a symbol of joining the elite. Everyone has access to higher education, so it takes more effort and hard work to excel in the competitive workplace.
The results of this study have aroused widespread attention and discussion from all walks of life. Although the data shows that the average IQ of college students is declining, we also need to see the positive impact of universal access to education. More people are able to pursue higher education and improve their knowledge, which is something to encourage and celebrate.
However, we also need to see the decline in the quality of education and the depreciation of degrees. University education needs to focus more on cultivating students' ability to innovate and practice, rather than just imparting knowledge. Students should also realize that a degree is only a starting point, and that true competence needs to be acquired through continuous learning and practice.
To sum up, the phenomenon of declining IQ of college students does bring us some reflection and reflection. Even though declining IQ may be an inevitable consequence of universal education, we still need to pay attention to and improve the quality of education so that students can have better opportunities to learn and grow in college. Only in this way can we build a smart and innovative society together.