Is it possible to teach intelligence? If so, debates about success being related to economic redistribution go out the window and all kids can can be taught the problem-solving skills that have been the metric for 'intelligence' over the last century.

The basis of general problem solving is the ability to use strategies acquired in one area to understand a wide range of other tasks. It's more than facts, though unfortunately facts are what international standardized tests - the kinds American kids are the middle of the pack in - focus us. American kids are instead taught how to think and that is the better way to go, because facts are now widely available thanks to technology. It is not longer a mark of intelligence to be able to recite things from memory.

Covert diverse, plentiful information into useful knowledge is another matter. New cross-curricular skills that are relevant in a number of situations and across several domains are also needed. 

University of Luxembourg researchers see strong evidence that this cross-curricular ability can be learned and is not simply a naturally acquired trait. The science is not yet sufficiently advanced to understand how the mechanisms work, for example how problem solving strategies can be employed to find a solution for different problems across domains. Fundamental research is required to deepen understanding and then this could be translated into practical programs for action.

"Our research indicates that it should be possible to understand the complex psychological processes that enable people to solve problems, a construct that is more popularly understood as 'intelligence'", explains Romain Martin, Professor of Psychology and Empirical Educational Research at the University of Luxembourg. "With this knowledge we could design programmes to train people to be adaptable throughout their lives," adds Samuel Greiff, Professor of Educational Assessment at the University of Luxembourg. This analysis is detailed in a recently published paper compiled by the University of Luxembourg with input from an international group of academics.

This work opens the possibility of revolutionizing education. It could offer a path towards equipping all students for the knowledge economy, even those who are currently classified as being "non-academic". The paper calls upon educators, governments, international bodies and researchers to work together to unlock the secrets behind how people learn to become intelligent.

Citation: "Domain-general problem solving skills and education in the 21st century", Samuel Greiff et al is published in the journal Educational Research Review. DOI: 10.1016/j.edurev.2014.10.002