IQ or EQ: what’s the difference and why do they matter?

Commons Education’s modern, progressive approach to finding the right school for your son or daughter draws together two strands: academic profile + character fit. You could call it IQ + EQ. Or the balance between classroom + sports pitch, rehearsal space or art studio.

So, what are IQ and EQ?

IQ (Intelligence Quotient) is a familiar measure of intelligence often discussed in education and business. EQ (Emotional Quotient) is a newer metric and harder to quantify but nonetheless very valuable alongside IQ.

While IQ is a measure of cognitive abilities, such as problem-solving, critical thinking and analytical skills, EQ is a measure of emotional intelligence, such as the ability to recognise and manage one's own emotions, as well as the emotions of others.

While IQ has traditionally been considered the most important measure of intelligence, Harvard Business School researchers assert that EQ is “responsible for nearly 90% of what sets top performers apart.” Source: https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/emotional-intelligence-in-leadership

Other studies have shown that people with higher EQ scores are more likely to be successful in their personal and professional lives, have better relationships and experience less stress and anxiety.

If AI can already equal or outperform humans in cognitive function, then the one sustainable advantage is going to be EQ.

It is vital for schools to recognise the importance of both IQ and EQ, and to develop their curriculum to cultivate both. Of course, all of this is easier said than done. Packing the curriculum with generic “communication skills” is unlikely to move the needle much (if at all) on outcomes for children. Given the subjectivity of EQ, it is hard to pin down and measure. And — unfortunately — things that can be measured get managers’ attention. There is interesting work happening in this field, though: companies like STEER are developing technology products that allow students in schools to track their emotional health, and help teachers to respond pre-emptively with support.