Who developed the WAIS and WISC intelligence scales?

The WAIS (Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale) and WISC (Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children) were developed by David Wechsler, a prominent psychologist known for his contributions to the measurement of intelligence. He aimed to create a more comprehensive understanding of human intelligence that encompassed various cognitive abilities. The WAIS is designed for adults, while the WISC is tailored for children, indicating Wechsler's intent to provide age-appropriate assessments.

Wechsler's scales were revolutionary because they were some of the first to assess different aspects of intelligence rather than a singular score, reflecting his belief that intelligence is a multifaceted construct. This approach allows for a more nuanced understanding of an individual's cognitive strengths and weaknesses, making it easier for psychologists to tailor education and interventions accordingly.

His work built upon earlier intelligence testing but emphasized the importance of both verbal and performance skills, which has had a lasting impact on the fields of psychology and educational assessment.