Multiple Intelligences



Multiple Intelligences

Introduction

To say that all teachers have different teaching styles and approach their classrooms differently is no surprise. Teaching can be called a science and an art form. It is understood that effective teachers facilitate students' learning by providing highly engaging learning experiences, which are both motivating and challenging to students. The Theory of Multiple Intelligences offers teachers yet another opportunity to hone in on their student's abilities and skills while offering a unique and rewarding learning experience. However, just knowing about or reading about Multiple Intelligences is not sufficient. One must put this theory into practical application in order to achieve the benefits of teaching to Multiple Intelligences.

Theory of Multiple Intelligences

Dr. Howard Gardner, professor of education at Harvard University, developed the theory of Multiple Intelligences in 1983. Dr. Gardner originally developed the theory and identified the following seven multiple intelligences (Gardner, 1993):

Linguistic intelligence - as in a playwright, editor, or poet;

Logical-mathematical intelligence - as in an accountant, scientist, or statistician;

Musical intelligence - as in a composer;

Spatial intelligence - as in an architect, interior designer, or airplane pilot;

Bodily kinesthetic intelligence - as in an actor, dancer, or athlete;

Interpersonal intelligence - as in a teacher or salesman;

Intrapersonal intelligence - demonstrated by one who others would describe as having their act together

Gardner's theory is that the multiple intelligences approach is adaptable; it can be utilized while teaching subject matter that requires a greater deal of attention, focus, and knowledge, as well as subjects that are more routine and basic. This theory also focuses on the basis that teachers need to recognize and utilize the fact that students do have different ways of learning and retaining information. The sooner that teacher recognize this and can streamline their teaching style to their student's intelligences, the more students will actually be impacted by this (Gardner, 1993).

Gardner (1999) contends that, "The theory of Multiple Intelligences can become a powerful partner in effective teaching" (p. 186). Gardner (1999) further relates that taking a multiple intelligences approach at teaching can enhance understanding by, "Providing powerful points of entry" (pp. 186-187). How a teacher approaches introducing a new subject to her students is extremely important. It is at the beginning that a teacher must try to grab her student's attention rather than allow them to tune out of the discussion. The teacher must find a way to engage the student in learning. The theory of Multiple Intelligences provides ample ways in which to introduce topics. Gardner also indicates that, "By offering apt analogies" (Gardner, 1999, pp. 186-187), one can also enhance a student's understanding of the subject matter. Finally, he suggests that, "By providing multiple representations of the central or core ideas of the topic" (Gardner, 1999, pp. 186-187), student's understanding can be enhanced. With teachers identifying the important ideas in a subject matter, the student is less likely to not understand what they are learning. Therefore, there are many ways that the Theory of Multiple Intelligences can work to benefit both teacher and ...