Multiple Intelligences
I have always found Howard Gardner’s multiple intelligences interesting. In Chapter 4 of the Woolfolk book, multiple intelligences are covered extensively. Gardner was a developmental psychologist that established the theory of multiple intelligences (MI). The theory of multiple intelligences encompasses at least eight separate intelligences. Gardner stresses that there are more than eight multiple intelligences and that eight is not the magic number (Woolfolk. Chapter 4, p. 123). I appreciated Table 4.1 on page 124 of the Woolfolk book that outlined all of the different multiple intelligences. The table suggests that there are eight or nine kinds of human abilities. I found the table to be helpful to better understand each category of intelligence. I also enjoyed finding my place within the table and where I fit in relating to multiple intelligences. It’s nice to know that we all have strengths and weaknesses in one or several areas. No one is the same.
The eight intelligences in MI theory are linguistic (verbal), musical, spatial, logical-mathematical, bodily-kinesthetic (movement), interpersonal (understanding others), intrapersonal (understanding self), and naturalist (observing and understanding natural and human-made patterns and systems) (Woolfolk, Chapter 4, p. 123).
Below are a few of my favorite multiple intelligences highlighted:
Linguistic intelligence involves sensitivity to spoken and written language, the ability to learn different languages, and then use language to accomplish certain goals.
Musical intelligence is the skill in the performance, composition, and appreciation of musical patterns. An individual is able to recognize and compose musical pitches, tones, and rhythms.
Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence entails the potential of using one’s whole body or parts of the body to solve problems. It is the ability to use mental abilities to coordinate bodily movements.
Interpersonal intelligence is to understand the intentions, motivations, and desires of other people. It allows people to work collaboratively with others. Educators all need well-developed interpersonal intelligence.
There are many critics Gardner’s multiple intelligence theory. One, in particular, is that just because someone has adopted the MI approach doesn’t mean the learning experience will be enhanced. Additionally, critics argue that there are published studies that validate Gardner’s theory. Gardner strikes back at the critics by defending his theory and saying that the critics have a narrow view of intelligence and do not have the breadth of research on multiple intelligences to form a disagreement. Gardner also stresses that intelligences are not the same as learning styles (Woolfolk, Chapter 4, p. 125).
My goal as a teacher is to develop lessons that can incorporate a variety of different intelligences to better meet the needs of many more students than through one method alone. With the help of Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences, it’s important to remember that no one set of teaching strategies will work best for all students at all times. As a result, when I have my own class filled with my students, I need to shift intelligence emphasis from lesson to lesson, if possible. Realizing that all students have various multiple intelligences can make teaching flexible, which is can result is really excellent teaching. Tailoring classroom activities to individual students' needs, interests, and strengths makes complete sense. I look forward to tapping into all of the different intelligences that will make-up my classroom. Everyone is different, everyone is unique, everyone learns differently. As an educator, it is key to remember this for a successful outcome for each of my students.
Kristen, I have always liked the idea of multiple intelligences. I feel like it gives everyone a chance to show their strengths. I love the idea of tailoring a lesson to feature one or more intelligences. That gives every student a chance to shine. I remember as a student when we were given a project involving art and creativity I always enjoyed it. Those are the projects I remember most.
ReplyDeleteHi Kristen,
ReplyDeleteI too enjoyed reading about multiple intelligences. I feel that I would most fit into the interpersonal intelligence. I have always been good at communicating with others and using a sense of humor to make people feel comfortable. As you stated, it is important to realize that multiple intelligences and learning preferences exist and to adapt as needed with individual students. I liked the idea of shifting intelligence focus from lesson to lesson and plan to incorporate that into my classroom.
Eric
Hello Kristen,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading your post very much! Before reading this chapter, I did not know much about the multiple different intelligence's. I found it absolutely amazing, as well as your defining them again for your readers. I really liked that you did that because it allows your readings to be able to refresh their minds as to what they previously read. I believe that if you use that particular tool in your future teachings then you will do just great!
Good evening Kristen,
ReplyDeleteGreat blog!! My favorite is interpersonal skills. I love just sitting back and observing people so I will know how to help them. Have a good evening.
Kirsten, your blog was very thoroughly written. You were able to explain The theory of multiple intelligence's in a way that gives you a very concise understanding. It is important to know your students and be able to transition from subject to subject while meeting all of your students needs. I also feel that the four intelligence's that you chose were my favorite ones as well. My approach to teaching is very hands on, empathetic and passionate. You want all of your students to feel included, cared for and understood.
ReplyDelete