Read the following passage and answer the question: A recent study by the OED Research Center revealed a surprising difference between adults and chil...

Read the following passage and answer the question:

A recent study by the OED Research Center revealed a surprising difference between adults and children regarding practical knowledge. Unlike traditional tests focusing on aptitude and analytical skills, this research emphasized real-life problem-solving and everyday decision-making. Participants faced situations reflecting common life experiences—such as managing minor crises, interpreting emotions, and solving daily challenges. Surprisingly, although adults had higher academic qualifications, their ability to handle practical situations was significantly lower than that of children.

Children, despite less formal education, showed remarkable insight, adaptability, and intuition. Their responses were realistic, creative, and based on observation. They tackled problems with open-mindedness and curiosity—qualities that often decline in adults due to rigid educational systems. This highlighted an important point: qualifications do not always equal real-world competence. Adults often depend on theoretical knowledge that does not translate well into spontaneous or practical scenarios, whereas children, free from overthinking and academic pressure, tend to understand and react to reality more naturally.

The study also pointed out deeper issues in how knowledge is taught and assessed. Adults, having spent years in institutions emphasizing grades and credentials, may lose the ability to learn flexibly or think critically beyond a fixed syllabus. Conversely, children learn through experience, observation, and constant questioning of their environment. Their learning is organic, motivated by curiosity rather than the need for validation through marks or degrees.

This research challenges conventional views on intelligence and exposes the limits of measuring competence solely by academic success. It suggests a need for change—in education systems and societal expectations—toward promoting experiential learning and real-world problem-solving skills. By valuing curiosity, adaptability, and practical understanding, we can better prepare individuals of all ages for life's complexities. Ultimately, the findings remind us that knowledge is not defined by age or education but by one’s ability to engage meaningfully with the world.

Question:
Which of the following statements are supported by the passage?

(I) The educational system may limit critical and flexible thinking in adults.

(II) Curiosity-driven learning plays a key role in children’s practical intelligence.

(III) Adults perform better than children in tasks involving emotional interpretation.