Howard Gardner, multiple intelligences and education

Gardner was born on July 11, 1943. He is still living, and is the John H. and Elisabeth A. Hobbs Professor of Cognition and Education at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. He came up with the theory of multiple intelligences regarding education.

The theory states that human beings are organisms who possess a basic set of intelligences. The intelligences provided 'a new definition of human nature, cognitively speaking' (Gardner 1999: 44). People have a unique blend of intelligences.

...It was generally believed that intelligence was a single entity that was inherited; and that human beings - initially a blank slate - could be trained to learn anything, provided that it was presented in an appropriate way.

Nowadays an increasing number of researchers believe precisely the opposite; that there exists a multitude of intelligences, quite independent of each other; that each intelligence has its own strengths and constraints; .... (Gardner 1993: xxiii)

The Different Intelligences, as outlined by Gardner, are as followed:

Linguistic intelligence involves sensitivity to spoken and written language, the ability to learn languages, and the capacity to use language to accomplish certain goals.

Logical-mathematical intelligence consists of the capacity to analyze problems logically, carry out mathematical operations, and investigate issues scientifically.

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.

Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence entails the potential of using one's whole body or parts of the body to solve problems.

Spatial intelligence involves the potential to recognize and use the patterns of wide space and more confined areas.

Interpersonal intelligence is concerned with the capacity to understand the intentions, motivations and desires of other people. It allows people to work effectively with others.

Intrapersonal intelligence entails the capacity to understand oneself, to appreciate one's feelings, fears and motivations.

references:
http://www.howardgardner.com/bio/bio.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Howard_Gardner
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