Roxanna Rosas Texas Woman’s University Fall 2008 Theory of Multiple Intelligences

Howard Gardner on Multiple Intelligences Howard Gardner viewed intelligence as ‘the capacity to solve problems or to fashion products that are valued in one or more cultural settings’ (Gardner & Hatch, 1989). Dr. Gardner proposes eight different intelligences to account for a broader range of human potential in children and adults.

Multiple Intelligences Musical Visual Spatial Intrapersonal Naturalistic Logical-Mathematical Verbal-Linguistic Interpersonal Kinesthetic

Teaching & Learning This theory provides eight different potential pathways to learning. If a teacher is having difficulty reaching a student in a traditional way of instruction, the theory of multiple intelligences suggests different ways to teach.

Resources

Musical Intelligence Those with high level of musical intelligence display greater sensitivity to sounds, rhythms, tones, and music. Those who are strongest in this intelligence may learn best via lecture.

Visual Spatial People with strong visual-spatial intelligence are very good at visualizing and mentally manipulating objects. These learners have a strong visual memory and are proficient at solving puzzles.

Intrapersonal Those who are strongest in this intelligence are usually introverts and prefer to work alone. They learn best when allowed to work independently.

Naturalistic Those with this intelligence are said to have greater sensitivity to nature and their place within it. Naturalists learn best when the subject is closely related to something prominent in nature.

Logical-Mathematical Those with strength in this intelligence excel in logic, abstractions, reasoning, and numbers. Many scientists, mathematicians, engineers, doctors, and accountants function in this level of intelligences.

Verbal-Linguistic People with this intelligence are typically good at reading, writing, and telling stories. These learners tend to learn best by reading, taking notes, listening to lectures, and via discussion and debate.

Interpersonal People in this category are usually extroverts and empathize easily with others. These learners do best when working with others.

Kinesthetic People with this intelligence are generally good at physical activities, such as sports or dance. These students learn best by getting up and moving around.

Resources Gardner, H., & Hatch, T. (1989). Multiple intelligences go to school: Educational implications of the theory of multiple intelligences. Educational Researcher, 18 (8), 4-9. Back to Graphic