Gardner's Multiple Intelligences- Not all Kids Learn Equally

Gardner's Multiple Intelligences- Not all Kids Learn Equally

All students are not the same. We assume "smart" means a very specific type of learner when, in fact, the opposite is true. Educational psychologists back the concept put forth by Howard Gardner in the early 1980s that students have various modalities and intelligences that define how they learn and understand the world. Teachers looking to reach some of the more academically challenged students, as well as parents of struggling children, would do well to consider applying alternative intelligence activities to their daily curriculum. Here are the 9 types of intelligences Gardner defines.

Logical-Mathematical- These are your typical book smart learners. They do well with abstractions, logic, reasoning, numbers, and critical thinking. These students are considered to have fluid intelligence that can apply in several areas, and do well with problem solving and pattern recognition activities.

Spatial- These kids can visualized things within space and time. Architects and artists, they have a keen mind's eye and can apply it to puzzles and other visual activities.

Linguistic- These are your talkers, readers, and writers. They revel in language and can enjoy word play and more challenging texts in the classroom.

Bodily-kinesthetic- These are the hands-on learners, who understand the world most clearly in terms of physical space. They require high energy, high impact activities to stay focused and understand tasks.

Musical- The sound group. Musical students have some ability in pattern recognition and math, but more in simple auditory actions. They enjoy the sound of words and can create rhythms easily.

Interpersonal- The social butterflies. These students have a high understanding and empathy for how other people feel and connect to each other. They are people persons and can deal well in a group or one on one.

Intrapersonal- These students have a keen awareness of self. Self reflective and contemplative, these students are the deep thinkers who need activities to be related to their life.

Naturalistic- These students love nature and can relate all things to the environment around them.

Existential- Highly spiritual, these students are concerned with the supernatural, religious, and beyond.