Multiple Intelligence Explained

Intelligence is generally associated with IQ tests. The former is always defined in terms of our intellectual potential that’s innate. It can be measured but is very difficult to change. Recent research has indicated the presence of multiple intelligences. One such research has been proposed by American psychologist Howard Gardner in his theory of multiple intelligence. In this article, we discuss the theory of multiple intelligence and the different types of multiple intelligence.

What is Multiple Intelligence?

Multiple intelligence refers to a theory that describes the various ways in which individuals can learn and acquire information. Multiple intelligence ranges from different use of words, numbers, music and pictures to the importance of social interactions and physical movements that should be in tune with nature.  

What is the Multiple Intelligence Theory?

This theory says that the traditional psychometric tests of viewing intelligence are restricted in their scope. In his book, ‘Frames of Mind: The Theory of Multiple Intelligence’, Gardner suggested that there are different types of intelligence in people. People don’t only have intellectual intelligence but also other types, which manifests as musical intelligence, spatial-visual intelligence, linguistic intelligence, etc. 

Criticism

Gardner’s theory has been criticised by educators and psychologists. The argument is that the definition of intelligence is quite broad and basically outlines a person’s talents, ability and personality traits. Educators often use this theory in their teaching. 

Types of Multiple Intelligence

Visual-Spatial intelligence

People who have this intelligence are very good at visualising things. They are very good with directions, charts, diagrams, maps, etc. Strengths include visual and spatial judgement. If an individual has a high degree of this intelligence, he or she is generally interested in the following dimensions: solving puzzles, interpreting images and charts, enjoying painting, and recognising patterns quickly. Hence, such people could consider being architects, engineers or artists.

Linguistic-Verbal Intelligence:

Individuals in this category have excellent speaking and writing skills. They are good at writing stories, reading and memorisation. Strengths include word and language power. If an individual has a high degree of this type of intelligence, he or she enjoys reading, writing, participating in debates or delivering speeches. Such people have the ability to explain things very well and can remember things written and spoken of. If their strength lies in this category, they could choose to be writers, journalists, lawyers or teachers.

Interpersonal Intelligence

Individuals with vital interpersonal intelligence are really good at understanding as well as interacting with other people. These individuals possess skills to assess the emotions, motivations as well as intentions of others around them. These people can communicate really well verbally and are equally skilled in nonverbal communication. They also try to see situations from different perspectives and create a positive relationship with others. Such people should try to be psychologists, philosophers, counsellors and even politicians.

Intrapersonal Intelligence

Individuals with strong intrapersonal intelligence are aware of their own feelings, motivations, and emotional states. They like to self-reflect upon themselves and analyse accordingly. This includes daydreaming, exploring relationships with others and trying to understand and assess their personal strengths. People who possess intrapersonal intelligence are swiftly able to analyse their strengths as well as weaknesses. They try to analyse their own theories and understand the basis for their motivations. People with this type of intelligence can try being writers, philosophers or scientists.

Musical Intelligence

People who have a strong musical intelligence possess the ability to think in patterns, sounds, and rhythms. Individuals with such a type of intelligence are good at music composition as well as performance. People with musical intelligence enjoy singing as well as playing musical instruments, easily recognise certain musical tones, remember certain songs as well as melodies and have a great understanding of musical notes and rhythms. Hence, ideally, people with such a type of intelligence should choose to become musicians or composers.

Logical-Mathematical Intelligence:

Individuals who are strong in this domain are good at recognising patterns and logical reasoning. They tend to think about patterns, numbers, etc. Strengths include analysing mathematical problems. If they have this type of intelligence, they would probably be good at problem-solving, enjoy abstract ideas, doing complex computations, etc. Hence, they could choose to be scientists, computer programmers or mathematicians.

Bodily-Kinesthetics Intelligence

Individuals who possess strong bodily kinesthetic intelligence are considered to be good with body movements, physical controls as well as performing actions. Individuals who are strong in this area tend to have the best hand-eye coordination. Their strengths include motor control as well as physical movement. If they have this type of intelligence, they have excellent physical coordination, enjoy creating things with their hands, and are skilled in sports and dancing. Hence, they ideally should choose to be dancers, sculptors or actors.

Naturalistic Intelligence

Naturalistic intelligence is one of the recent additions made to Gardener’s theory of multiple intelligence. However, it has been severely criticised due to its inherent definitions. According to the definitions, individuals who have such intelligence are interested in nurturing as well as exploring the environment. These individuals are said to be quite aware even of the slightest change in their environments. Such people are generally interested in subjects like botany, zoology, biology. They like to camp, garden as well as hike and explore different places. They also tend to categorise as well as catalogue information. People with strong naturalistic intelligence can pursue fields like biology or even farming.

Conclusion

Hopefully, now you have clearly understood what multiple intelligence is all about. However, the theory of multiple intelligence has been criticised by various experts as well as psychologists since it mainly relates to innate talents and is not backed by any empirical evidence.