Theory of Multiple Intelligences
This theory suggests that traditional psychometric views of intelligence are too limited. Gardner first outlined his theory in his 1983 book Frames of Mind: The Theory of Multiple Intelligences, where he suggested that all people have different kinds of "intelligences".
Gardner proposed that there are eight intelligences and has suggested the possible addition of a ninth known as "existentialist intelligence”. In order to capture the full range of abilities and talents that people possess, Gardner theorizes that people do not have just an intellectual capacity, but have many kinds of intelligence, including musical, interpersonal, spatial-visual, and linguistic intelligences.
While a person might be particularly strong in a specific area, such as musical intelligence, he or she most likely possesses a range of abilities. For example, an individual might be strong in verbal, musical, and naturalistic intelligence.
Dr. Gardner says that our schools and culture focus most of their attention on linguistic and logical-mathematical intelligence. We esteem the highly articulate or logical people of our culture. However, Dr. Gardner says that we should also place equal attention on individuals who show gifts in the other intelligences: the artists, architects, musicians, naturalists, designers, dancers, therapists, entrepreneurs, and others who enrich the world in which we live.
The theory of multiple intelligences also has strong implications for adult learning and development. Many adults find themselves in jobs that do not make optimal use of their most highly developed intelligences (for example, the highly bodily-kinesthetic individual who is stuck in a linguistic or logical desk-job when he or she would be much happier in a job where they could move around, such as a recreational leader, a forest ranger, or physical therapist). The theory of multiple intelligences gives adults a whole new way to look at their lives, examining potentials that they left behind in their childhood (such as a love for art or drama) but now have the opportunity to develop through courses, hobbies, or other programs of self-development.
What is Multiple Intelligences test?
Howard Gardner, a psychologist, first developed the theory of multiple intelligence in 1983, when it first appeared in his book Frames of Mind. The theory says that intelligence isn't one single unit of measurement, but instead multiple. For many, this makes sense. There aren't too many people who are masters of all subjects. Some may be math wizards but were never good with the arts. Just because you're not good at one subject, it doesn't mean you're not intelligent.
Gardner proposed that everyone has nine types of intelligence, and even considers there to be more intelligences out there:
Visual-Spatial Intelligence |
People who are strong in visual-spatial intelligence are good at visualizing things. These individuals are often good with directions as well as maps, charts, videos, and pictures. |
Linguistic-Verbal Intelligence |
People who are strong in linguistic-verbal intelligence are able to use words well, both when writing and speaking. These individuals are typically very good at writing stories, memorizing information, and reading. |
Logical-Mathematic Intelligence |
People who are strong in logical-mathematical intelligence are good at reasoning, recognizing patterns, and logically analyzing problems. These individuals tend to think conceptually about numbers, relationships, and patterns. |
Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence |
Those who have high bodily-kinesthetic intelligence are said to be good at body movement, performing actions, and physical control. People who are strong in this area tend to have excellent hand-eye coordination and dexterity. |
Musical Intelligence |
People who have strong musical intelligence are good at thinking in patterns, rhythms, and sounds. They have a strong appreciation for music and are often good at musical composition and performance. |
Interpersonal Intelligence |
Those who have strong interpersonal intelligence are good at understanding and interacting with other people. These individuals are skilled at assessing the emotions, motivations, desires, and intentions of those around them. |
Intrapersonal Intelligence |
Individuals who are strong in intrapersonal intelligence are good at being aware of their own emotional states, feelings, and motivations. They tend to enjoy self-reflection and analysis, including daydreaming, exploring relationships with others, and assessing their personal strengths. |
Naturalistic Intelligence |
According to Gardner, individuals who are high in this type of intelligence are more in tune with nature and are often interested in nurturing, exploring the environment, and learning about other species. |
Existential Intelligence |
A spiritual intelligence was not included in Gardner’s original work but is now viewed as a viable aptitude that can be quantified and studied. This intelligence can be recognized by a sensitivity and capacity to tackle deep questions about human existence, such as the meaning of life, why do we die, and how did we get here. |
Gardner's definition of intelligence is a bit different. He believes that intelligence is the ability to process information, which you can use to create art or solve problems the world has. For instance, one who excels in science can make discoveries, while someone who is good with the arts can create a product everyone can enjoy.
It should be noted that Gardner believes that just because you excel in one intelligence, it doesn't mean that you should focus on that intelligence alone. You should strive to improve your other intelligences, but also focus on what makes you perform your best. You may be good in multiple areas, have none of one area, or be well-rounded in all categories. It all depends. Also, you may find yourself realizing that your intelligences may be fluid. For example, you may be interested in the arts during one period of your life, and you may be interested in gardening in another. Just because you see your results do not mean they are set in stone, and it will all depend. As such, you should use Gardner's intelligence test as the only way of measuring your intelligence, but instead one out of many.
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