What is the theory of multiple intelligence? What are its benefits?

First, I would like to give a general idea of what MI is. The theory of multiple intelligences (MI) was first advanced by Dr. Howard Gardner. Challenging the traditional concept intelligence, the theory of multiple intelligences suggest that each individual has eight different types of intelligences. These intelligences combine to form any individual’s specific cognitive potential.

8 types of intelligences:

1.       1.Verbal-linguistic intelligence refers to an individual’s ability to analyze information and produce work that involves oral and written language.

2.       2. Logical-mathematical intelligence describes the ability to detect patterns, reason deductively and think logically, make calculations, and solve abstract problems.

3.        3.Visual-spatial intelligence describes the ability manipulate and create mental images in order to solve problems and reason, to visualize concepts and space.

4.        4.Musical intelligence involves skill in the performance, composition, and appreciation of musical patterns. It encompasses the capacity to recognize and compose musical pitches, tones, and rhythms.

5.       5.Naturalistic intelligence refers to the ability to identify and distinguish among different types of plants, animals, and weather formations found in the natural world.

6.       6.Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence entails using one’s own body to create products or solve problems.

7.       7.Interpersonal intelligence reflects an ability to recognize and understand other people’s moods, desires, motivations, and intentions.

8.       8.Intrapersonal intelligence refers to people’s ability to recognize and assess those same characteristics within themselves.

On a general basis, MI theories have three benefits:

Self-development and formation. MI theories can help students and teachers better understand their abilities. It helps students to build up confidence as it demonstrates how they can use their strengths to address their weaknesses. It motivates students to find where their interest and strength lies and push their abilities further.

A broader choice of schooling. All intelligences are required for an individual to live a full life. Therefore, teachers need to attend to all intelligences, not just the ones that the traditional intelligence focuses on.

MI theories also look into morality. Gardner once considered adding a “moral intelligence” to the MI theories. But he later came to the conclusion that ‘Morality’ is a complex concept combined with numerous psychological aspects such as personality, will and character. Therefore it is not an intelligence in itself. But he did not give up on the idea of “moral intelligence” and stated that ‘we must figure out how intelligence and morality can work together to create a world in which a great variety of people will want to live’.