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| Howard Gardner, Multiple Intelligences and Education |
Students will be able to
- list the different types of intelligence humans may possess.
- learn about the implications of the Theory of Multiple Intelligences in the classroom.
Howard Gardner viewed intelligence as ‘the capacity to solve problems or to fashion products that are valued in one or more cultural setting’ (Gardner & Hatch, 1989).
Howard Gardner initially formulated a list of seven intelligences. His listing was provisional. The first two have been typically valued in schools; the next three are usually associated with the arts; and the final two are what Howard Gardner called ‘personal intelligences’ (Gardner 1999: 41-43).
Linguistic intelligence involves sensitivity to spoken and written language, the ability to learn languages, and the capacity to use language to accomplish certain goals. This intelligence includes the ability to effectively use language to express oneself rhetorically or poetically; and language as a means to remember information. Writers, poets, lawyers and speakers are among those that Howard Gardner sees as having high linguistic intelligence.
Logical-mathematical intelligence consists of the capacity to analyze problems logically, carry out mathematical operations, and investigate issues scientifically. In Howard Gardner’s words, it entails the ability to detect patterns, reason deductively and think logically. This intelligence is most often associated with scientific and mathematical thinking.
Musical intelligence involves skill in the performance, composition, and appreciation of musical patterns. It encompasses the capacity to recognize and compose musical pitches, tones, and rhythms. According to Howard Gardner musical intelligence runs in an almost structural parallel to linguistic intelligence.
Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence entails the potential of using one’s whole body or parts of the body to solve problems. It is the ability to use mental abilities to coordinate bodily movements. Howard Gardner sees mental and physical activity as related.
Spatial intelligence involves the potential to recognize and use the patterns of wide space and more confined areas.
Interpersonal intelligence is concerned with the capacity to understand the intentions, motivations and desires of other people. It allows people to work effectively with others. Educators, salespeople, religious and political leaders and counselors all need a well-developed interpersonal intelligence.
Intrapersonal intelligence entails the capacity to understand oneself, to appreciate one’s feelings, fears and motivations. In Howard Gardner’s view it involves having an effective working model of ourselves, and to be able to use such information to regulate our lives.
Naturalistic intelligence. These learners flourish from being able to touch, feel, hold, and try practical hands-on experiences, but generally outdoors within the environment, nature and animals. Being Naturalistic generally means you are very interested and curious of your surroundings. You like star-gazing, collecting bugs or rocks, gardening, looking after animals, cooking or even just playing out with friends.
This video will give you ideas on how to implement the Multiple Intelligences Theory of Learning in the classroom.
Watch Dr. Gardner talking about his learning theory.
What type(s) of intelligence do you have? Here are two tests you can take to find out:
http://www.literacynet.org/mi/assessment/findyourstrengths.html
Homework:
Popular Ideas about Second Language Acquisition
Soon we will discuss this article. Please dedicate time to read it.
Sources
Carman, A. Video: Multiple Intelligences in the classroom.mov. Retrieved from: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zGX458fHRF4
Image of Dr. Garner retrieved from: http://infed.org/mobi/howard-gardner-multiple-intelligences-and-education/
Material for this posting retrieved entirely from: http://infed.org/mobi/howard-gardner-multiple-intelligences-and-education/
Purefoy, D. Video. Howard Gardner of Multiple Intelligence Theory. Retrieved from: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l2QtSbP4FRg
