Multiple Intelligences Howard Gardner proposed the theory that individuals possess multiple intelligences in his 1983 book Frames of Mind. The seven original intelligences and the recently-added eighth suggest that people learn and express themselves in different ways. Each of us has varying degrees of these culturally and biologically influenced intelligences: Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence Interpersonal Intelligence Intrapersonal Intelligence Linguistic Intelligence Logical-Mathematical Intelligence Musical Intelligence Naturalist Intelligence (the newest) Spatial Intelligence How does the theory of multiple intelligences influence assessment? Gardner does not suggest that the theory is prescriptive and will result in a single instructional approach. In fact, he admits that his theory has often been misinterpreted and that innapropriate applications have resulted in a negative perception of the theory by some educators. He does, however, suggest three positive ways in which multiple intelligences can be—and sometimes are—used in schools: Cultivating desired capabilities. Schools should cultivate skills and capacities the community and society in general desire. Approaching instruction in a variety of different ways. Gardner suggests schools cover too much content in too little depth. Instead, he recommends encouraging teachers to take the time to cover material in greater detail through a variety of methods and materials. This multiplicity in approaches will result in three desired outcomes: More children will learn, because not all children learn in the same way or have the same level of each type of intelligence. As students observe teachers approaching and demonstrating concepts in multiple ways, they will become aware of expert behavior and develop their own capacity to demonstrate knowledge in various forms. Students will demonstrate their understanding, as well as difficulties in understanding, in ways that are comfortable to them and accessible to others. Personalizing education. Gardner says the schools that have most effectively applied multiple intelligences take human differences seriously. Any uniform approach to education—including a uniform approach to assessment—is bound to appeal to a minority and alienate or frustrate the rest. 5, 6 Did You Know? Howard Gardner helped to establish Harvard University's Project Zero, which continues to perform research in the field of learning, thinking, and creativity in the arts and other disciplines. Visit its Web site for more information about the work of Gardner and his colleagues. A short overview of the Theory of Multiple Intelligences also available from EdWeb.