What was the main purpose of the intelligence test developed by Binet and Simon in 1904?

The intelligence test developed by Binet and Simon in 1904 was primarily aimed at identifying children who might struggle in a traditional educational setting. The goal was not to label children as "smart" or "dumb," but rather to determine which students required additional support or specialized instruction. This approach stemmed from Binet's belief that intelligence could be nurtured and that children who were falling behind could benefit from tailored educational interventions.

The creation of this test was a response to the French government's request for a method to identify students who would not excel in the regular school environment due to various learning difficulties. Therefore, the instrument focused on measuring cognitive abilities essential for academic success, rather than simply ranking children or assessing their overall school performance or social skills.

This initiative laid the groundwork for future intelligence testing and had a profound influence on educational practices. It emphasized the importance of adapting teaching methods to meet individual student needs, reflecting a more humane and developmental approach to education.