Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences suggests that human intelligence is not a single, generic capacity, but rather a collection of separate, independent intelligences. It says that individuals have various strengths and learning styles, which influence how they learn and interact with the world.
- Visual-spatial: People with high visual-spatial intelligence excel at visualizing things. They are good with directions, maps, charts, videos, and pictures.
- Linguistic-verbal: People with high linguistic-verbal intelligence can use words effectively in writing and speaking. They are typically good at writing stories, memorizing information, and reading.
- Logical-mathematical: People with high logical-mathematical intelligence excel at reasoning, pattern recognition, and logical problem analysis. They tend to think conceptually about numbers, relationships, and patterns.
- Body-kinesthetic: Those with high bodily-kinesthetic intelligence are said to be skilled at body movement, performance, and physical control. They typically have excellent hand-eye coordination and dexterity.
- Musical: People with a high level of musical intelligence think in terms of patterns, rhythms, and sounds. They have a strong appreciation for music and are often talented composers and performers.
- Interpersonal: Strong interpersonal intelligence is the ability to understand and interact effectively with others. These people are adept at determining the emotions, motivations, desires, and intentions of those around them.
- Intrapersonal: Individuals with high intrapersonal intelligence are more aware of their own emotional states, feelings, and motivations. They enjoy self-reflection and analysis, which includes daydreaming, exploring relationships with others, and evaluating their personal strengths.
- Naturalistic: Gardner’s most recent addition to his theory, naturalistic intelligence, has received more criticism than his original seven intelligences. According to Gardner, people with high levels of 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 people are said to be acutely aware of even subtle changes in their surroundings.
Important note: Multiple intelligence theory is lacking in evidence and is criticized in modern science.