Questions & Answers

Question: What is multiple intelligences theory?

Answer: The concept of multiple intelligences was first articulated by Howard Gardner in his book “Frames of Mind” in 1983. His theory is based on a neuropsychological analysis of human abilities. It argues that intelligence falls into seven categories:

• linguistic intelligence

• logical/mathematical intelligence

• spatial intelligence

• musical intelligence

• bodily/kinesthetic intelligence

• intrapersonal intelligence

• interpersonal intelligence

The first three types of intelligence – linguistic (or verbal) intelligence, logical/mathematical intelligence and spatial intelligence – are not unusual, having been identified previously by many other researchers. The other four are rather unusual. According to Gardner, all seven abilities are well represented in the brain but at different extents. Bodily/kinesthetic intelligence includes the types of skill that athletes, typists, dancers or mime artists exhibit. Intrapersonal intelligence includes awareness of one’s own feelings. Interpersonal intelligence is the ability to notice individual differences in other people and to respond appropriately to them.

People usually don’t have all these different intelligences equally developed. While one person may have highly developed mathematical intelligence and less advanced interpersonal intelligence, another person might have good spatial awareness and bodily/kinesthetic intelligence but might be weak mathematically.

What is the implication of this theory for teachers? First of all, it tells us that in any one classroom we have a number of different individuals with different learning styles and preferences. This means that we should try to ensure that different learning styles and intelligences are catered for as often as possible. We should offer a wide range of different activity types in our lessons in order to cater for individual differences and needs.