Multiple intelligences

Howard Gardner, American psychologist of Development is the father of The Theory

of Multiple Intelligences. According to his theory, there are various types of intelligences that
interact in order to make us able to accomplish different activities. We have all these
intelligences but they are at different levels according to each individual, so this explains why
we react differently to the tasks that we are given (our motivation, our lack of motivation, our
fear, our confidence, etc). Our profile is flexible though and it can change and develop in time
due to experience and environment factors.
For Gartner, no intelligence is more important than another. This theory allows the
teacher to vary and differentiate his presentation of the subject according to the intelligence of
his students. He can propose tasks that favor experiment, manipulation, action, interaction and
emotion. This can also prevent certain difficulties that students can encounter regarding the
tasks that are proposed. It also allows students to vary and differentiate their way of showing
their abilities and also it helps them learn how to know each other better. Howard Gardner has
identified seven distinct intelligences.
Visual-Spatial persons think in terms of physical space, as do architects and sailors.
They like to draw, do jigsaw puzzles, read maps and daydream. They can be taught through
drawings, verbal and physical imagination.
Bodily-kinesthetic use the body effectively, like a dancer or a surgeon. They like
movement, making things, touching. They communicate well through body language and are
taught through physical activity, hands-on learning, acting out, role playing. Tools include
equipment and real objects.
Musical people show sensitivity to rhythm and sound. They love music, but they are
also sensitive to sounds in their environments. They may study better with music in the
background.
Interpersonal people are understanding and like interacting with others. These students
learn through interaction. They have many friends, empathy for others, street smarts. They
can be taught through group activities, seminars and dialogues.

Intrapersonal intelligence means understanding one's own interests, goals. These

learners tend to shy away from others. They aree in tune with their inner feelings; they have
wisdom, intuition and motivation, as well as a strong will, confidence and opinions.
 Linguistic intelligence means using words effectively. These learners have highly
developed auditory skills and often think in words. They like reading, playing word games,
making up poetry or stories
Logical -Mathematical intelligence is related to reasoning, calculating. The people
having it like to experiment solve puzzles, ask cosmic questions.