The Principles of Multiple Intelligences

As a teacher, I have noticed that students have not only different tempers but also different learning styles and ways of perception. When I hear about 9 bits of intelligence I was really surprised because I assumed that there are only those students who prefer more physical activity, visual learners and those who like to hear things. No, it turns out that this field has been widely studied by Howard Garner, a professor and an author of many books on neuropsychology and brain functioning.

This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Aija N. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.

H. Gardner devised a Multiple Intelligence theory presuming that there are separate human capacities, ranging from musical intelligence to the intelligence involved in self-understanding.

When you first meet your students, of course, you cannot know what intelligence each one of them has. As a teacher, you conduct your lesson the way you have prepared it. However, once you notice in students that they prefer more music, visuals, physical activity, etc., you can respond to this need. H. Gardner suggests that everyone possesses nine different forms of intelligence to a varying degree. This disproves my previous statement and means that our students should not be labeled with a particular learning style or intelligence since everyone has all 9 of them. I find this revolutionary in the realm of teaching languages. H. Gardner also adds that “in many ways, multiple intelligences seem a particular gift of childhood”, however, “as individuals get older, our intelligences simply become internalized” (p. 82).

Also Read: How to find a job teaching English in Spain?

Let us unfold each one of 9 bits of intelligence:

1. Musical Intelligence

• Understands their ‘world’ through traits that music requires, such as rhythms, patterns, compositions, and so on.
• Generally good at picking up instrument skills.
• Easily recognizes musical patterns and tones, especially when sounds are off-key.
• Sensitive to sound, and responds emotionally to music.

2. Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence

• Generally good at sports or dancing, and skills that require dexterity, or the body in some way.
• Enjoys creating things with their hands, and physically touching objects.

3. Logical-Mathematical Intelligence

• Demonstrates problem-solving skills, especially in mathematics.
• Curious about how things work.

4. Linguistic Intelligence

• Has a strong acumen for reading, writing and telling stories.
• Gives good explanations and can articulate well through vocabulary.

5. Spatial Intelligence

• Able to recall visual details.
• Skilled at visual recognition, such as by completing puzzles easily or recognizing graphical patterns.
• Enjoys creating and engaging with visual arts.

6. Interpersonal Intelligence

• Able to empathize with others.
• Able to recognize the moods and inner feelings of those around them.
• Enjoys helping others with problem-solving, or by being a good listener and understander of what they’re experiencing.
• Develops healthy relationships, and enjoys people.

7. Intrapersonal Intelligence

• Shows independence and individuality in their work and personal life.
• Can express how they are feeling, and are generally aware of what is going on inside them, emotionally and psychologically (considering that some life situations can create inner ‘confusions’ for many people).

8. Naturalistic Intelligence

• Enjoys learning about plants and animals.
• Enjoys playing in the water or with pets and bugs, and generally enjoys all things outdoors.
• Passionate about nature conservation efforts.

9. Existential Intelligence or “the intelligence of big questions”

• Questions subjects such as the meaning of human life and our existence.
• Leads a spiritual life or one that is inquisitive about the ‘unseen.’

Also Read: Where do schools provide free airfare for English teachers abroad?

A person may show signs in a few of this above-mentioned intelligence, however, this doesn’t mean they can’t become strong in all of them. H. Gardner believes that these multiple human faculties are to a significant extent dependent on one another (22, 1).

To develop them it is important to give our students multiple ways to access content, along with multiple ways to demonstrate knowledge and skills. When H. Garnder was asked how to get to know your student’s intelligences during the first weeks of school, he replied with two suggestions: firstly, take them on outings to a children’s museum or to some other sort of setting that provides a rich experience; secondly, give a short questionnaire about their strengths to the students and their parents (p.84).

Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course!

Knowing your student's strengths and interests can help the teacher in modeling a successful learning path for the student to develop one's multiple intelligences. We are all so different and that is the beauty of all mankind.

Apply now & get certified to teach english abroad!

Speak with an ITTT advisor today to put together your personal plan for teaching English abroad.

Send us an email or call us toll-free at 1-800-490-0531 to speak with an ITTT advisor today.

Related Articles:

• 5 Keywords To Increase Your Confidence in the Classroom As A Teacher
• 10 Questions You Need to Ask Before Enrolling In a TEFL Course
• The 10 Best Destinations for Teaching English Abroad in 2018
• 10 Tips for Teaching Grammar to EFL Students Abroad
• The Best Government Programs For Teaching English Abroad
• What Scams to Look Out for When Looking for TEFL Jobs