The Triarchic theory of intelligence was formulated by Robert J. Sternberg, a prominent figure in the research of human intelligence. The theory by itself was groundbreaking in that it was among the first to go against the psychometric approach to intelligence and take a more cognitive approach.Contextual intelligence (later know as practical intelligence) This could be termed "street smarts" and embraces: • Ability to apply knowledge to the real world • Ability to shape one's environment; choose an environment