Discussion Sheet: Intelligence, Learning and Values

1. Learning and Intelligence

Psychologist Howard Gardner has argued (1983) that our traditional ideas of intelligence are very limit-
ed. He describes 7 different forms of intelligence which give a broader picture of human capacity for
learning. Where do you consider your own strengths to lie? Rate yourself. (yes, confidential!)
SCALE: 1=poor or undeveloped 3=average 5=very good or highly developed
a) linguistic intelligence (skill in language) 1 2 3 4 5
b) logical-mathematical intelligence 1 2 3 4 5
c) spatial intelligence (sense of direction,
and ability to manipulate images in space) 1 2 3 4 5
d) musical intelligence (the ability to perceive
and create pitch and rhythmic patterns) 1 2 3 4 5
e) bodily-kinesthetic intelligence (athletic
skill and co-ordination) 1 2 3 4 5
f) interpersonal intelligence (the ability to
understand others, how they feel, etc.) 1 2 3 4 5
g) intrapersonal intelligence (the ability to
see oneself, to develop a sense of identity) 1 2 3 4 5
2. Learning and Knowing
What is the connection between these forms of intelligence and difference knowledge that we pos-
sess? What forms of intelligence do you think figure most centrally in building knowledge in the differ-
ent areas of knowledge? in math? in the sciences? in history? in the arts? in ethics?
3. Values Placed on Learning Capacity
These forms of intelligence do not seem to be valued equally by all communities. What forms do you
think are valued most highly overall by your own society? Roughly rank them, in descending order of
importance (using the letters a to g above), first according to what you think is given highest value by
society and then according to what you think is most valuable yourself. Be prepared to explain how
you did the ranking in both cases.
According to my society: According to myself:
most important _____ most important _____
_____ _____
_____ _____
_____ _____
_____ _____
_____ _____
least important _____ least important _____
10 creative commons copyright Eileen Dombrowski http://www.tedombrowski.com/perspectives/ed1.html