Gardner's Theory of Multiple Intelligence
In recent years, however, other
views of intelligence have emerged. One such conception is the theory of
multiple Intelligence proposed by Harvard psychologist Howard Gardner.
Gardner defines intelligence as a
“biopsychological potential to process information that can be activated in a
cultural setting to solve problems or create products that are of value in a
culture”.This theory suggests that traditional psychometric views of
intelligence is 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 "intelligence."
Gardner proposed that there are
eight bits of intelligence, and has suggested the possible addition of a ninth known
as "existentialist intelligence."
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.
Types of Multiple Intelligences
Visual / Spatial Intelligence:
Ability to perceive the visual.
These learners are able to learn with pictures and need to create vivid mental
images to retain information. They enjoy looking at maps, charts, pictures,
videos, and movies.
Potential Career Choices:
If someone is strong in
visual-spatial intelligence, good career choices for them are:
- Architect
- Artist
- Engineer
Verbal / Linguistic Intelligence:
Ability to use words and
language. These learners have highly developed auditory skills and are
generally good speakers. They think in words rather than pictures
Potential Career Choices:
If someone is strong in linguistic-verbal
intelligence, good career choices for them are:
- Writer/journalist
- Lawyer
- Teacher
Logical/mathematical intelligence:
Ability to use reason, logic and
numbers. These learners think logically and numerically making connections
between pieces of information. Always curious about the world around them,
these learners ask a lot of questions and like to do experiments.
Potential Career Choices:
If someone is strong in
logical-mathematical intelligence, good career choices for them are:
- Scientist
- Mathematician
- Computer programmer
- Accountant
Bodily / KinaestheticIntelligence:
Ability to control body movements
and handle objects skillfully. These learners express themselves through
movement. They have a good sense of balance and eye-hand coordination. Through
interacting with the space around them, they are able to remember and process
information.
Potential Career Choices:
If someone strong in bodily-kinaesthetic
intelligence, good career choices for them are:
- Dancer
- Body Builder
- Sculptor
- Actor
Musical / Rhythmic Intelligence:
Ability to produce and appreciate
music. These musically inclined learners think in sounds, rhythms, and patterns.
They immediately respond to music either by appreciating or criticizing what
they hear. Many of these learners are extremely sensitive to environmental
sounds.
Potential Career Choices:
If someone is strong in musical
intelligence, good career choices for them are:
- Musician
- Composer
- Singer
- Music teacher
- Conductor
Ability to understand others.
These learners try to see things from other people's points of view in order to
understand how they think and feel. They often have an unnatural ability to
sense feelings, intentions, and motivations. Generally, they try to maintain
peace in group settings and encourage co-operation. They use both verbal (e.g.
speaking) and non-verbal language (e.g. eye contact, body language) to open
communication channels with others.
Potential Career Choices:
If someone is strong in
interpersonal intelligence, good career choices for them are:
- Psychologist
- Philosopher
- Counselor
- Salesperson
- Politician
Ability to self-reflect and be
aware of one's inner state of being. These learners try to understand their
inner feelings, dreams, relationships with others, and strengths and weaknesses
Potential Career Choices:
If someone is strong in
intrapersonal intelligence, good career choices for them are:
- Philosopher
- Writer
- Theorist
- Scientist
Naturalistic is the most recent
addition to Gardner’s theory and has been met with more resistance than his
original seven bits of 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.
These individuals are said to be highly aware of even subtle changes to their
environments.
Potential Career Choices:
If someone is strong in
naturalistic intelligence, good career choices for them are:
- Biologist
- Conservationist
- Gardener
- Farmer
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