Multiple Intelligences

Another way of measuring how we learn is the theory of multiple intelligences, which suggests that all human beings have at least eight different types of intelligence. This theory was developed in 1983 by Dr. Howard Gardner, a professor of education at Harvard University. Gardner’s theory is based on the idea that the traditional definition of human intelligence is very limited. Gardner argues that students should be encouraged to develop the abilities they have, and that evaluation should measure all forms of intelligence.

high-impact practice 2

Write and Reflect

Is There Really More than One Type of Intelligence?

Do a Google search for the phrase multiple intelligences debate. Write a one-page paper that describes different opinions about Howard Gardner’s theory. Do you agree with the theory? Why or why not?

Gardner’s work is controversial because it questions our traditional definitions of intelligence. According to Gardner’s theory, all human beings have at least eight different types of intelligence, as follows:

  1. A verbal/linguistic learner likes to read, write, and tell stories, and is good at memorizing information.
  2. A logical/mathematical learner likes to work with numbers and is good at problem solving and logical processes.
  3. A visual/spatial learner likes to draw and play with machines and is good at puzzles and reading maps and charts.
  4. A bodily/kinesthetic learner likes to move around and is good at sports, dance, and acting.
  5. A musical/rhythmic learner likes to sing and play an instrument and is good at remembering melodies and noticing pitches and rhythms.
  6. An interpersonal learner likes to have many friends and is good at understanding people, leading others, and mediating conflicts.
  7. Intrapersonal learners like to work alone, understand themselves well, and are original thinkers.
  8. A naturalistic learner likes to be outside and is good at preservation, conservation, and organizing a living area.
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Figure false: A Knack for Music
Figure false: Consider the checkmarks you made under musical/rhythmic intelligence in the Multiple Intelligences Inventory in this chapter. Do you play an instrument? Do you find yourself tapping out rhythms? Can you listen to a song and then play it “by ear”? If music comes naturally to you, you probably have a strong musical/rhythmic intelligence.
Figure false: Blend Images-Hill Street Studios/Getty Images

Where do you think you see yourself? In your opinion, which of these eight intelligences best describes you? As you think of your friends and family, what kinds of intelligences do you think they have? Verify your assumptions about the intelligences of friends and family members by taking the Multiple Intelligences Inventory together. Were there any surprises or were your assumptions confirmed?