Theory of Multiple Intelligences

American psychologist Howard Gardner proposed the idea of multiple forms of intelligence. This idea was called the theory of multiple intelligences. He said there is no single idea of intelligence, but different, multiple independent bits of intelligence. They represent unique skills and talents for a certain category. Gardner proposed eight bits of intelligence. They are linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, musical, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal, and naturalist intelligence. He claimed that most activities would require a combination of these multiple intelligences. These multiple intelligences are crucial for understanding concepts such as creativity and leadership. This theory also helps in planning your career. One should proceed with a career that suits their type of intelligence. 

Visual-Spatial Intelligence

This intelligence is also termed picture smart intelligence. It is related to people who are good at visualising things. Pattern recognition is their main skill. These people can manipulate patterns in broad spaces. Pattern recognition helps in surgery, architecture, graphics, etc. People with visual-spatial intelligence can dominate the careers of a pilot, surgeon, architect, graphic artist, interior decorator, etc.  

Linguistic Intelligence

This type of intelligence deals with the skills of spoken or written language. People with this type of intelligence have a greater advantage in learning languages. They can use this skill to master various languages and fulfil their goals. These people can inspect information or data to create books and speeches. People with linguistic intelligence can dominate the careers of a lawyer, speaker, host, author, journalist, curator, etc.  

Logical-Mathematical Intelligence

People with this type of intelligence can solve mathematical and logical problems with comfort. They are natural problem solvers. These people tend to dominate the scientific world. Their ability to develop equations and carry out mathematical operations is special. This type of intelligence can solve abstract problems and develop proof.  People with mathematical-logical intelligence can dominate the careers of a mathematician, accountant, statistician, scientist, computer analyst, etc.

Body-Kinesthetic Intelligence

People with this type of intelligence use their entire body or parts of the body to solve problems. The strength of their body is a crucial factor in this intelligence. Complex problems can be solved with the help of mind-body coordination. People with body-kinesthetic intelligence can dominate the careers of a dancer, athlete, surgeon, mechanic, carpenter, physical therapist, sportsperson, etc.

Musical Intelligence

People with this type of intelligence can identify musical patterns. Their musical composition and appreciation skills are more significant compared to others. These people can recognise and create musical pitches, rhythms, tones and tunes. People with musical intelligence can dominate the careers of a singer, composer, DJ, musician, etc.

Interpersonal Intelligence

People having this type of intelligence are called smart people. They can understand the human motivations, emotions, and fantasies of other people better than others. People with interpersonal intelligence can dominate the careers of a teacher, psychologist, manager, salesperson, public relations, etc.

Intrapersonal Intelligence

People having this type of intelligence can understand themselves better. They can appreciate their skills, motivations, intentions, and fears. These people are self-aware. They can use this as an advantage to succeed in their career. People with intrapersonal intelligence can be good at professions like therapists, psychologists, counsellors, entrepreneurs, clergy, etc.

Naturalist Intelligence

These are called nature people. People with this type of intelligence can recognise and understand flora and fauna well. They have a spiritual understanding of nature and the environment. They can identify and classify different animals, plants and natural processes. 

People with naturalist intelligence can dominate the careers of a botanist, biologists, astronomers, meteorologists, geologists, etc.

Purpose of the theory of multiple intelligences

This theory is the backbone of smart learning. Using specific intelligence for specific skills makes the learner productive. It gets different parts of our brain to function. The theory of multiple intelligences states that the traditional way of learning binds you. The ways of learning with traditional methods are limited. If someone is strong in one area, it might be possible that this person is good at another skill. This theory helps you to find that skill. 

Conclusion

Human intelligence cannot be summarised into one particular division. Everyone has multiple. Hence, Howard Gardner proposed the theory of multiple intelligences.  He presented the idea of multiple forms of intelligence. There is no single idea of intelligence, but different, multiple independent bits of intelligence. There are eight types of intelligence. Linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, musical, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal, and naturalist intelligence are the types of intelligence proposed in the theory of multiple intelligences. These multiple intelligences are crucial for understanding concepts such as creativity and leadership. This theory also helps in planning your career. One should proceed with a career that suits their type of intelligence. This theory is the backbone of intelligent learning. Using specific intelligence for specific skills makes the learner productive.