What are the Multiple Intelligences?
Gardner's Theory Provides Ideas to Meet Needs of Learners
Sep 20, 2009
Dr. Howard Gardner developed the theory of multiple intelligences in 1983, which identifies eight different ways in which a student might learn. These are extensions of the three recognized learning styles; audio, visual and tactile/kinesthetic. Including all eight in each lesson can be difficult, especially with the current emphasis on standardized exams, but varying lesson activities throughout the curriculum makes it easier for all students to learn.
Multiple Intelligences Emphasized by Standardized Tests
Popular educational practices in the United States emphasize reading and mathematics in order to prepare students for standardized tests. There is also a push for students to develop stronger problem solving skills. Consequently, two intelligences, linguistic and logical-mathematical, have become the primary instructional pieces in the classroom.
Linguistic intelligence represents a strength in learning through words. These students succeed in a traditional classroom due to their ability to do well in verbal environments that emphasize listening, speaking and writing.
Logical-Mathematical intelligence represents a strength in logical reasoning. These students do well with problem solving activities, can easily make connections between different pieces of information and tend to be comfortable asking questions.
Intelligences That Need Classroom Emphasis
Though linguistic and logical-mathematical are the most common intelligences taught to in school, there are six others. Some are easier to include in classroom activities than others, but recognizing the need to include all types of learners involves identifying these six intelligences.
Bodily-Kinesthetic intelligence is represented by students who learn best by working with the space around them. In school, many of these children find success in athletics, acting and art.
Interpersonal intelligence is the ability to relate well with others. These are the students who learn best by working with others, and may be very in-tune with, and affected by, the emotions and feelings of their peers.
Intrapersonal intelligence is a strength in self-reflection and self-awareness. Students who learn best through intrapersonal activities tend to prefer self work over group work and do well in philosophical exercises.
Musical intelligence is learning through rhythm, music and hearing. These students think in patterns and are attracted to musical connections to lessons.
Naturalistic intelligence was not one of the original set, but was identified by Gardner in 1997. These students may be affected by weather, easily able to nurture and relate to plants and animals, and frequently need to make connections to previous learning to understand something new.
Visual-Spatial intelligence is represented by students who learn best through images. They tend to think in pictures, are artistic and do well when problem solving with manipulatives.
In the current culture of standardized testing, only students who learn and respond well in certain styles can truly demonstrate their understanding of lessons. Students who excel in one may gain specialized attention as a gifted children, but most students learn using a combination of all eight intelligences. By including a combination of intelligences in each lesson it becomes easier to engage and teach all students.
References: LDPride.net.
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