The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) test was created in the 1950s by psychologist,  David Wechsler after whom it is named. It is the most widely used intelligence test today [1], and is based on Wechsler's belief that the Stanford- Binet's Intelligent Quotient test had limitations that needed to be addressed [2]. 

Some key differences between the two intelligence tests, for reference are while the Stanford- Binet test provides a single score to represent the intelligence level of the person who's taking the assessment & is intended to be used for all ages; the WAIS test is designed for use on adults and provides multiple scores per ability tested. 

There have been five editions/ revisions of the WAIS test, and the below shows a pictorial representation of the current version, the 5th one and the areas of assessment [1].  

The WAIS mixes traditional verbal assessments with asspessments that are performance based- to allow for those who have not been through a formal education process to still perform and be measured on their intelligence. For a more indept view to the way the assessment works, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0cEkjY2HNCo shows a few examples of the assessment methodology. 

The key strengths of this assessment format are: 

- Recognition that intelligence can be displayed across various traits

- Recognizes that intelligence in adults and children need different measurements as experiences will build on intelligence through the acquistion of multiple experiences

- Is more inclusive of addressing the barriers to the traditional method of measuring IQ- through its design of activities that are non verbal but still allow the participant to show that they are thinking. 

Disadvantages: 

​- The assessment methodology can only be administered in person by a trained psychologist, creating barriers to more widespread testing and given pricing, cannot be administered more widely with economically disadvantaged groups 

- Doesn't include other possible displays of intelligence. For e.g. creativity, musical ability, adaptability 

Can you think of more disadvantages? 

References: 

[1]- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wechsler_Adult_Intelligence_Scale#WAIS 

[2]- verywellmind.com/the-wechsler-adult-intelligence-scale-2795283

[3]- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KJ5GNhMGkSM

[4]- graduateway.com/the-pros-and-cons-of-the-wechsler-adult-intelligence-scale/