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

Interpersonal Intelligence:

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

Intrapersonal Intelligence:

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 Intelligence:

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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