Theory of Multiple Intelligences

Theory of Multiple Intelligences

Introduction

Multiple Intelligences Theory is developed in the 1980s by a team of researchers from Harvard University, led by psychologist Howard Gardner, trying to analyze and better describe the concept of intelligence.

Gardner said that the concept of intelligence as traditionally defined in psychometrics (IQ tests) was not sufficient to describe the wide range of human cognitive abilities. Thus, the theory states that a child who learns to multiply numbers easily is not necessarily more intelligent than another who has stronger skills in another kind of intelligence. The child, who takes longer to master a simple multiplication, (a) might better learn to multiply through a different approach, (b) can be excellent in a field outside of mathematics, or (c) may be looking to understand and the multiplication process at a deep level (Gardner, 1999).

Discussion

Gardner claims that these intelligences are presented in two ways. Some people are born with certain intelligences, ie, the genetic contribution. However, the experiences also contribute to the development of certain intelligences. The stimuli and social environment are important in the development of certain intelligences. If a person, for example, born with a musical intelligence, but environmental conditions (school, family, region where you live) do not provide incentives for the development of musical skills, this individual is hardly a musician (Klein, 1998). 

The intelligences are(Gardner, 1999): 

 Logic - facing conclusions based on numerical data and reason. People with this intelligence have ease in explaining things using formulas and numbers. Usually do mental arithmetic quickly. 

Linguistics - high capacity use language for communication and expression. Individuals with this intelligence developed are great speakers and communicators, and they have great capacity for learning languages. 

Body - great ability to use the body to express or artistic activities and sports. A champion gymnast or a dancer famous surely have this intelligence well developed. 

Naturalist - focused on the analysis and understanding of natural phenomena (physical, climatic, astronomical, chemical). 

 Intrapersonal - People with this intelligence have the ability ...