Gardner Theory of Multiple Intelligence

Definition: The theory of multiple intelligences was proposed by Howard Gardner in 1983 to analyze and better describe the concept of intelligence. It states that individuals can possess compentencies in many areas, including, the linguistic, spatial, interpersonal, and natural. Apply: Community organizers can use this theory to visualize and verbally express ways to improve the community. Organizers can use the spatial means of learning in this theory to use their eyesight to view problems first hand in the community and see how to fix them. They can then use the linguistic aspect of this model to verbalize their ideas and concepts on how to improve the community. Adapt: Traditionally, schools have emphasized the development of logical intelligence and linguistic intelligence (mainly reading and writing). Gardner's theory argues that students will be better served by a broader vision of education, wherein teachers use different methodologies, exercises and activities to reach all students, not just those who excel at linguistic and logical intelligence. The theory suggest that students can learn using different activities and that teachers will be better served applying different techniques. Using different techniques to help students learn engages students through constrained but meaningful choices, and a sharp focus on enabling students to produce high-quality work.