Multiple Intelligences

Howard Gardner, PhD. From Harvard (1991) has conducted research regarding cognitive development, and from his findings and the recent research, he has identified seven intelligences that play a part in how children learn and develop, and the controversy has been, how to incorporate the intelligences into the curriculum. Gardner’s theory suggests there are seven intelligences and they are; 1) Visual-Spatial – this intelligence deals with drawing, and maps, anything visual/spatial dealing with the environment. 2) Bodily-Kinesthetic – this intelligence deals with use of body, touching and movement; oftentimes we think of a dancer, or someone who self-expresses themselves through movement. 3) Musical – this intelligence deals with music and sound and may be more lyrically inclined, or blessed with a voice for singing. 4) Interpersonal – this intelligence deals with understanding feelings and interacting with others. Someone who is passionate and compassionate, one who cares about others and the environment. 5) Intrapersonal – this intelligence deals with an understanding of feeling and emotion. They are intuitive and aware of their surroundings as well as the environment and others. 6) Linguistic – this intelligence deals with auditory skills, one who possesses a love of reading, and understands the written words. They enjoy word games, books and dealing with all things involved in reading, and 7) Logical-Mathematical – and this final intelligence deals with reasoning and calculations. An understanding and appreciation of numbers and logic, they are often reasoners and look for the logical response to all questions.

This, of course, is a brief synopsis of the seven intelligences posed by Gardner’s theory, and the challenge is to incorporate these intelligences into lesson plans utilizing numerous of the intelligences. It is possible, in fact, most teachers are doing it quite successfully, but it is a challenge especially when trying to incorporate the multiple intelligences. What are your thoughts?

Reference: Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences
Reference: Learning Personalities
Reference: Curriculum: Multiple Intelligences

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