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B.Ed Notes - Gardner’s Multiple Intelligence Theory


 Gardner's Definition of Intelligence 

The human ability to solve problems or to make something that is valued in one or more cultures.

The theory of multiple intelligence is Howard Gardner’s theory that proposes:
  • That people are not born with all of the intelligence they will ever have.
  • It says that intelligence can be learned throughout life.
  • Claims that everyone is intelligent in at least nine different ways and can develop each aspect of intelligence to an average level of competency.
  • Intelligence, as defined by Gardner, is the ability to solve problems or fashion products that are valuable in one or more cultural settings.

The 9 intelligences included in Gardner’s theory are:
  1. Verbal/ Linguistic
  2. Visual/ Spatial
  3. Interpersonal
  4. Musical/ Rhythmic
  5. Logical/ Mathematical
  6. Intrapersonal
  7. Bodily/ Kinesthetic
  8. Naturalist
  9. Existentialist


Principles of Multiple Intelligence Theory:

  1. Intelligence is not singular: intelligences are multiple.
  2. Every person is a unique blend of dynamic intelligences.
  3. Intelligences vary in development, both within and among individuals.
  4. All intelligences are dynamic.
  5. Multiple intelligences can be identified and described.
  6. Every person deserves opportunities to recognize and develop the multiplicity of intelligences.
  7. The use of one of the intelligences can be used to enhance intelligence.
  8. Personal background density and dispersion are critical to knowledge, beliefs, and skills in all intelligences.

Linguistic Intelligence: 

Linguistic Intelligence (Word Smart) is the capacity to use language, your native language, and perhaps other languages, to express what's on your mind and to understand other people. Criteria Used for Linguistic Intelligence
  • Can understand words and manipulate the structure of language
  • Has highly developed communication skills including writing, speaking, and story-telling
  • Knows and correctly uses rules of grammar
  • Enjoys reading, writing, and speaking
  • Has a large vocabulary
  • These people would do well in these careers: Author, Journalist, Poet, Playwright, Radio Announcer, etc


Logical-Mathematical Intelligence:

  • Logical-mathematical intelligence is the capacity to use numbers effectively and reason well.
  • Someone who has this kind of intelligence is able to see cause and effect really well; also, they are able to identify a problem and solve it right there on the spot.
  • People with this intelligence think by reasoning, and they love experimenting, questioning, figuring out logical puzzles, and calculating.

The kinds of processes used in the logical-mathematical intelligence sequence are:
  • Categorization
  • Classification
  • Inference
  • Generalization
  • Calculation
  • Hypothesis testing

These people would do well in these careers: Accountant, Auditor, Banker, Bookkeeper, Businessperson, Computer Analyst, Computer Programmer, etc 

Spatial Intelligence: 

Spatial intelligence is the brain’s ability to perceive and interpret visual stimuli. In other words, it’s how our minds process what we see. Although not very recognized, spatial intelligence is very important in the arts and in everyday life. 
Why is spatial intelligence important?
  • We visually perceive and interpret the world around us is an important quality to have.
  • In the arts, the ability to transfer a vision to a painting, sculpture, or film is a key quality.
  • Careers such as architecture require a person to transfer a vision of a structure into a blueprint.
  • Spatial intelligence is even used by average people to remember small, but important facts; like how to travel from your school to your house. Everyone uses spatial intelligence in everyday life.
  • Possible Careers: Architect, Cartographer(Map Maker), Drafter, Engineer, Fine Artist, Graphic Designer, Fashion Designer, etc

Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence: 

  • It is expertise in using one’s whole body to express ideas and feelings. Examples: acting, dancing, sports, and using body language 
  • It is the ability to use one’s hands to produce or transform things. Examples: sculpting clay and hands-on learning
  • Possible Careers: Actor, Athlete, Carpenter, Choreographer (creates and arranges dances), Craftsman, Dancer, Farmer, Forest Ranger, etc

Musical Intelligence: 

Being musically intelligent means that you are able to distinguish the sounds around you and that you have the ability to make your own melodies. Even if you are only singing a song or making music, you are using your musical intelligence. If you are musically intelligent, you are able to:
  • Perceive
  • Discriminate
  • Transform
  • Express

All kinds of musical forms Possible careers: Song Writer, Performing Musician , Piano Turner, Singer, Musical Theater Actor/ Actress , Studio Engineer, Instrument Manager

Interpersonal Intelligence :

  • Interpersonal intelligence, (people smart), is understanding other people. It’s an ability we all need, but is at a premium if you are a teacher, clinician, salesperson, or a politician. Anybody who deals with other people has to be skilled in the interpersonal sphere.
  • Possible Careers: Public Relations, Salesperson, Sociologist, Therapist, Teacher, Travel Agent

Intrapersonal Intelligence :


  • Intrapersonal intelligence is self-knowledge and the ability to act adaptively on the basis of that knowledge. This intelligence includes having an accurate picture of oneself (one’s strengths and weaknesses); awareness of inner moods, intentions, motivations, temperaments, and desires; and the capacity for self-discipline, self-understanding, and self-esteem. Essentially, it’s how well you know yourself. 
  • Possible Careers: Entrepreneur, Program planner, Psychiatrist, Psychology Teacher, Researcher, etc 


Naturalistic Intelligence: 

  • Naturalist intelligence designates the human ability to discriminate among living things (plants, animals) as well as sensitivity to other features of the natural world (clouds, rock configurations).
  • Naturalistic intelligence is the ability to understand, relate to, categorize, classify, comprehend, and explain the things encountered in the world of nature.
  • People who exhibit developed naturalistic intelligence include: Farmers, Ranchers, Hunters, Gardeners, Botanists, Geologists, etc


Existential Intelligence: 

  • Individuals who exhibit the proclivity to pose (and ponder) questions about life, death, and ultimate realities.
  • Existential Intelligence is sensitivity and capacity to tackle deep questions about human existence
  • People who exhibit developed existential intelligence include: Theologians, Philosophers, Spiritual advisors

In a nutshell…

  • Verbal/Linguistic - "Word Smart"
  • Logical/Mathematical - "Math Smart"
  • Musical/Rhythmic - "Music Smart"
  • Bodily/Kinesthetic - "Body Smart"
  • Visual/Spatial - "Art Smart"
  • Naturalist - "Nature Smart"
  • Intrapersonal - "Self Smart"
  • Interpersonal - "People Smart"
  • Existential - "Wandering Smart"


The theory of multiple intelligences has encouraged the idea that a person is not born with all the intelligence they will ever possess.


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