The theory of multiple intelligences was first proposed in the early 1980s by Harvard analyst Howard Gardner, and his research into multiple intelligences continues today. Gardner’s MI theory challenges the traditional idea that humans possess only one type of intelligence, defined as their IQ, and that this one intelligence is solely what defines their cognitive abilities. MI theory proposes that there are eight different kinds of human intelligence, and that every person possesses each of them, but to varying degrees.
The eight multiple intelligences categories
Verbal-linguistic
People with verbal-linguistic intelligence are good at written and spoken languages. They have a greater ability to learn different languages and are good writers and speakers. William Shakespeare, Edgar Alan Poe and Al-Mutanabbi were people with verbal-linguistic intelligence.
Logical-mathematical
People with logical-mathematical intelligence are good with numbers and logic. They can perform mathematical operations with ease, and they are good at solving problems logically and abstractly. Albert Einstein, Sir Isaac Newton and Stephen Hawking all had logical-mathematical intelligence.
Visual-spatial
People with visual-spatial intelligence are good at analyzing and manipulating large-scale and small-scale visual models, drawings, patterns or images. Leonardo Da Vinci, Vincent Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso and the architect Zaha Hadid all had visual-spatial intelligence.
Musical
People with musical intelligence have a good ear for music, notes, rhythms and pitch. Musicians like Mozart, Beethoven and Luciano Pavarotti were people with musical intelligence.
Bodily-kinesthetic
People with bodily-kinesthetic intelligence like creating work with their hands and utilizing their body and mind in physical activities. The basketball player Michael Jordan, the choreographer Martha Graham and the footballer Neymar are examples of this type of intelligence. Athletes, builders, potters and handymen also have bodily-kinesthetic intelligence.
Interpersonal
People with interpersonal intelligence are good at understanding and interacting with others. These people use both verbal and non-verbal communication techniques effectively. Examples of people with this intelligence include Martin Luther King Jr., Mahatma Gandhi and Oprah Winfrey. Teachers, actors and comedians also have interpersonal intelligence.
Intrapersonal
People with intrapersonal intelligence are good at reflecting on their own thoughts and feelings. They are self-motivated and have a deep understanding of human nature. Psychologists and philosophers like Plato, Jean Piaget and Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche are examples of people who had intrapersonal skills.
Naturalist
People with naturalistic intelligence are in great harmony with nature. They can recognize flora and fauna and are good at understanding the environment and its dynamics. John Muir and Charles Darwin are examples of people who had naturalist intelligence.
The benefits of multiple intelligences
MI theory can help educators and students better comprehend their own capacities. It assists them in utilizing their strengths to address their weaknesses. It can also motivate them to discover where their advantages and strengths lie and drive their capabilities further.
MI theories are suitable for both differentiated and individual education because they enable educators to foster and adapt new projects so that they address their students’ strengths and interests. Educators can create instructions to suit their students’ various intelligences using a wide array of exercises and activities aligned with students’ interests.
