Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences

Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences posits that humans are not born with all of the intelligence they will ever possess.
Gardner believed common assertions about intelligence were incorrect or limited at best. He proposed that people possess multiple types of intellectual competencies to capture the full spectrum of human talents and abilities.
Gardner’s eight types of intelligence are linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, bodily-kinesthetic, music, interpersonal, intrapersonal, and naturalist.

Aspect	Explanation
Definition	Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences is a psychological theory proposed by Howard Gardner in 1983. It suggests that there are multiple types of intelligences that individuals possess, beyond the traditional notion of a single, general intelligence (often measured by IQ). Gardner identified eight distinct intelligences, each representing different ways individuals can excel and learn.
Key Concepts	– Eight Intelligences: Gardner proposed eight primary intelligences, which include verbal-linguistic, logical-mathematical, visual-spatial, bodily-kinesthetic, musical-rhythmic, interpersonal, intrapersonal, and naturalistic intelligences. – Diverse Abilities: The theory acknowledges that people may excel in one or more of these intelligences to varying degrees. – Individual Variation: Gardner emphasizes that individuals may have different profiles of intelligences, highlighting the diversity of human cognitive abilities. – Educational Implications: The theory has significant implications for education, suggesting that teaching should be adapted to cater to different types of intelligence.
Eight Intelligences	– Verbal-Linguistic: Strength in language, including reading, writing, and verbal communication. – Logical-Mathematical: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. – Visual-Spatial: Proficiency in visual perception and spatial reasoning. – Bodily-Kinesthetic: High physical coordination and skill in activities that require body movements. – Musical-Rhythmic: Musical talent and sensitivity to rhythm and sound. – Interpersonal: Skill in understanding and relating to other people, often seen in leadership and social skills. – Intrapersonal: Self-awareness and understanding of one’s own emotions and motivations. – Naturalistic: Ability to recognize and categorize patterns in the natural world, such as flora and fauna.
Educational Applications	– Individualized Learning: Educators can tailor teaching methods to students’ predominant intelligences to enhance learning. – Varied Assessments: Assessment methods should be diverse to account for different types of intelligences. – Holistic Development: Acknowledging and nurturing multiple intelligences can contribute to holistic student development.
Criticisms	– Lack of Empirical Evidence: Some critics argue that there is limited empirical evidence to support the theory. – Overlaps and Interactions: The theory doesn’t account for the interactions and overlaps between different intelligences. – Limited Application: Implementing the theory in education can be challenging, and some educators find it impractical.
Contemporary Relevance	Gardner’s theory continues to influence education, especially in the development of diverse teaching methods and the recognition of the importance of individual differences in learning.
Other Intelligences	Over the years, Gardner has proposed additional intelligences, such as existential intelligence (concerned with the big questions of human existence) and pedagogical intelligence (related to teaching and learning).
Conclusion	Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences challenges the traditional notion of a single, monolithic intelligence and highlights the diversity of human cognitive abilities. While it has faced criticism and debate, it remains influential in educational practice and underscores the importance of recognizing and nurturing a wide range of talents and abilities.

Table of Contents

Understanding Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligence

Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences posits that humans are not born with all of the intelligence they will ever possess.

Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligence was developed by Harvard University psychologist Howard Gardner and first proposed in his 1983 book Frames of Mind: The Theory of Multiple Intelligences.

Intelligence is a concept that is often mentioned in the same breath as intellectual potential.

Many believe this potential is inherited from our parents and, as a result, is something we are stuck with. Others believe intellect is directly related to IQ or some other quantifiable measure.

In his book, Gardner believed these assertions were incorrect or limited at best. He proposed that people must have multiple types of intellectual competencies to capture the full spectrum of human talents and abilities.

Let’s take a look at these types in the next section.

Gardner’s eight types of intelligence

Gardner defined intelligence as the “biopsychological potential to process information that can be activated in a cultural setting to solve problems or create products that are of value in a culture.”

He also identified several so-called “candidate intelligences” in his research, but only eight of them satisfied the inclusion criteria that were based on various scientific principles.

The eight types of intelligence are:

1 – Linguistic intelligence (word smart)

These individuals have technical proficiency in the written and spoken word. They may also possess the capacity to use language to achieve goals or create products. William Shakespeare and Oprah are two such examples.

2 – Logical-mathematical intelligence (number/reasoning smart)

These individuals can think abstractly and discern numerical or logical topics. Albert Einstein and Bill Gates possess this form of intelligence because they can develop equations and proofs, make calculations, and solve problems.

3 – Spatial intelligence (picture smart)

Gardner defined spatial intelligence as the ability to solve spatial problems of navigation, visualize objects from various angles, notice fine details, and recognize specific faces or scenes.

Spatial intelligence is normally present in artists, architects, chess players, surgeons, pilots, and sculptors.

4 – Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence (body smart)

Those with bodily-kinesthetic intelligence use their bodies (or parts thereof) to create products, perform skills, or solve problems.

NBA superstar Michael Jordan is one example.

5 – Musical intelligence (music smart)

Singers, composers, and other musicians possess skills that enable them to perform, compose, and appreciate music and musical patterns. They can recognize pitch, rhythm, melody, timbre, and tone.

Examples include Beethoven and Adele.

6 – Interpersonal intelligence (people smart)

Interpersonal intelligence is the capacity to work well with others based on an understanding of their motivations, needs, and desires. This can be present in teachers, philanthropists, managers, salespeople, and public relations staff.

Mother Teresa and Mahatma Gandhi immediately spring to mind here.

7 – Intrapersonal intelligence (self smart)

As the name suggests, those with intrapersonal intelligence have a detailed understanding of themselves.

Their ability to be self-reflective means they know their strengths and weaknesses and can even predict how they will react in certain situations.

Greek philosopher Aristotle (and many like him) possessed intrapersonal intelligence.

8 – Naturalist intelligence (nature smart)

Naturalist intelligence was not part of the initial list of intelligences, with Gardner first proposing it in 1995 some twelve years after the release of his book.

Those such as Charles Darwin and David Attenborough can classify numerous species of flora and fauna.

They can also make other consequential observations about the natural world such as those related to mountains and rocks.

Key Highlights

Multiple Intelligences: Gardner’s theory rejects the idea that intelligence is a single, fixed entity measured by IQ tests. Instead, it proposes that there are multiple intelligences, each representing a unique way of processing information and solving problems.
Biopsychological Potential: Intelligence, according to Gardner, is a biopsychological potential. It’s the ability to process information effectively within a cultural context to solve problems or create valuable products.
Eight Intelligences: Gardner’s theory identifies eight core intelligences:
- Linguistic Intelligence: Proficiency in written and spoken language. People with linguistic intelligence excel in communication and may become writers or orators.
- Logical-Mathematical Intelligence: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, particularly in mathematics and abstract reasoning. Thinkers like Albert Einstein demonstrate this intelligence.
- Spatial Intelligence: The ability to visualize and manipulate spatial objects. Artists, architects, and navigators often have strong spatial intelligence.
- Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence: Adeptness in using one’s body to solve problems or create products. Athletes and dancers are examples.
- Musical Intelligence: Skill in understanding, creating, and appreciating music, including recognizing pitch, rhythm, and melody. Musicians like Beethoven showcase this intelligence.
- Interpersonal Intelligence: The capacity to understand and work effectively with others, based on insight into their motivations and emotions. Leaders and counselors often possess this intelligence.
- Intrapersonal Intelligence: Deep self-awareness, allowing individuals to understand their own motivations, emotions, strengths, and weaknesses. Philosophers and self-help authors are examples.
- Naturalist Intelligence: The ability to recognize and categorize elements of the natural world, such as species, plants, and geological features. Biologists like Charles Darwin exhibit naturalist intelligence.
Cultural Relevance: Gardner’s theory acknowledges that the importance and relevance of these intelligences may vary across cultures. What’s considered highly intelligent in one culture may differ in another.
Educational Implications: The theory has influenced education by advocating for diverse teaching methods that cater to different intelligences. It suggests that educators should recognize and nurture the various strengths and talents of students.
Holistic View: Gardner’s theory encourages a more holistic view of intelligence and talent, allowing individuals to appreciate their unique strengths and contributions to society.
Ongoing Development: Gardner later proposed a ninth intelligence, “Naturalist Intelligence,” in 1995. This addition recognizes the ability to understand and connect with the natural world, as seen in naturalists like David Attenborough.
Personal Growth: Understanding one’s dominant intelligences can help individuals make informed career choices and pursue personal growth in areas where they excel.