The Third ITI learning principle states that THERE ARE MULTIPLE
It was Howard Gardener, the Harvard
cognitive psychologist, who first proposed the concept of multiple
intelligences in 1983. Until that time, human intelligence was generally
thought of as either verbal/linguistic or logical/mathematical in nature and
was measured in statistical terms on specific standardized tests. Howard Gardener’s multiple intelligence
theory has changed the way we think about human intelligence and potential.
Gardener proposed that there are more than one or two intelligences and each of
them operates from a different part of the brain. He originally identified the
following seven intelligences and in recent years has suggested there is a
couple more.
Verbal/linguistic intelligence involves
sensitivity to the meaning and order of words- the sounds, rhythms, inflections
and different functions of language. Writers and public speakers are people who
have a finely developed verbal/linguistic intelligence.
People who
naturally enjoy exploring and investigating logical or numerical patterns and
reasoning, analyzing and solving problems are demonstrating logical/mathematical intelligence. Mathematicians,
accountants and scientists are people who have developed this intelligence.
Musical Intelligence is demonstrated by sensitivity to rhythm, pitch and
tone. Musicians, singers and song
writers display musical intelligence.
Spatial intelligence involves the ability to transform one element into another or to
perceive forms accurately. Visual artists and architects demonstrate this
intelligence.
People who
have highly developed gross and fine motor skills and well coordinated control
over their bodily movements display bodily-kinesthetic
intelligence. Dancers, mimes, gymnasts and professional athletes are
examples of this intelligence.
Intrapersonal intelligence is exemplified by people who have self-knowledge. They are
highly attuned to their own desires, goals, abilities, strengths and weaknesses
and use this knowledge to guide their own behavior. Philosophers, self-help
experts and religious leaders exemplify this intelligence.
People who display interpersonal intelligence are especially attuned to others. They
can read other people’s moods and feelings and use that information to guide
their own behavior. Those with strong interpersonal intelligence can empathize
and care for others and also demonstrate strong leadership skills. Caring
professions such as nurses, teachers and councilors depend on interpersonal
intelligence.
In the third ITI principle it is very important that the
students have the opportunity to develop and build on their various
intelligences and that these differing intelligences are equally valued in
school. This means that curriculum and instruction should be presented in a
variety of ways and that students should have opportunities to demonstrate what
they have learned in various ways also.