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Multiple Intelligences

What Is It?

Multiple intelligences refers to a theory of intelligence developed in 1983 by Howard Gardner, a professor of education at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Education World Resources

Check out the following Education World resources for more information on the theory of multiple intelligences and its application in the classroom.

* The "Art" of Comprehension
* Bringing Out the Best in Kids
* Creating a Naturalist-Friendly Environment in School
* Lessons Learned from Howard Gardner and the TV Remote Control
* Multiple Intelligences: A Theory for Everyone
* Multiple Intelligences: It's Not How Smart You Are, It's How You're Smart!
* MI Magnet School Draws Praise in First Year
* MI Magnet School Helps Students Appreciate, Develop Different Talents
* Sands of the World: Swapping Sand and Sharing Knowledge
* Student Learning-Strengths Inventory

Howard Gardner defines intelligence as the ability to solve problems, fashion products, or provide services that are valued in a culture. Based on that definition, he has identified at least eight different intelligences. They are:

  • linguistic
  • logical-mathematical
  • musical
  • spatial
  • bodily-kinesthetic
  • interpersonal
  • intrapersonal
  • naturalist

Explore It

To learn more about Howard Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences, explore the following Web sites:

Use It!

Teachers who use multiple intelligence strategies in their classrooms address the dominant intelligences of all their students by presenting subject matter in ways that use language, numbers, physical surroundings, sound, the body, and social skills. The assessment tools below will help you determine the strengths and learning styles of your students to help you better direct and structure your lessons.

Students can take the following interactive tests online and immediately learn the results:

Learn More About It

Visit the following Web sites to extend your understanding of Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences: