2. INTRODUCTION
2
Intelligence is the ability to acquire and apply knowledge
and skills.
Intelligence is often defined as our intellectual potential,
something we are born with, something that can be
measured.
In recent years however, other views of intelligence have
emerged.
One such conception is the Theory of Multiple
Intelligences proposed by Harvard psychologist Howard
Gardner.
3. Theory of Multiple Intelligences
3
This theory suggests that traditional psychometric
views of intelligence like IQ Tests are too limited.
Gardner first outlined his theory in his 1983 book
“Frames of Mind: The Theory of Multiple
Intelligences”, where he suggested that all people
have different kinds of ‘intelligence’.
In order to capture the full range of abilities and
talents that people possesses, Gardner proposed
that there are eight intelligences, and has
suggested the possible addition of a ninth.
4. The nine types of intelligences are Spatial, Naturalist,
Intrapersonal, Interpersonal ,Linguistic, Musical,
Logical-Mathematical, Bodily Kinesthetic and
Existential Intelligences.
4
6. VISUAL–SPATIAL INTELLIGENCE
People who are strong in Visual-
Spatial Intelligence are good at
visualising things.
Good with directions as well as
maps, charts, videos and pictures.
Aware of their environment.
Thinks in terms of physical space
as do sailors and architects.
7. NATURALIST INTELLIGENCE
Individuals who are high in
naturalistic intelligence are more in
tune with nature and are often
interested in nurturing , exploring
the environment and learning
about other species.
Highly aware of even subtle
changes to their environment.
8. MUSICAL INTELLIGENCE
People who have strong musical
intelligence are good at thinking in
patterns, rhythms and sounds.
Have a strong appreciation for
music and are often good at music
composition and performance.
Sensitive to the sounds in their
environments.
9. INTRAPERSONAL INTELLIGENCE
Good at being aware of their emotional
status, feelings and motivations,
Tends to enjoy self-reflection and analysis
including daydreaming, exploring
relationships with others and assessing
their personal strengths and weaknesses.
Tends to be more reserved but they are
actually quite intuitive about what they
learn and how it relates to themselves.
10. INTERPERSONAL INTELLIGENCE
Good at understanding and
interacting with other people.
Skilled at assessing emotions,
motivations, desires and intentions
of those around them.
Sees situations from a different
perspective and are good at
resolving conflict in groups.
Good at verbal and non-verbal
communication.
11. LINGUISTIC INTELLIGENCE
People who have strong Linguistic
Intelligence are able to use words
well both when writing and
speaking.
Good at debating or giving
persuasive speeches and are able to
explain things well.
Has highly developed auditory
skills and often thinks in words.
12. BODILY-KINESTHETIC
INTELLIGENCE
Good at body movements,
performing actions and
physical control.
Has excellent hand-eye
coordination, dexterity and
quick reflexes.
Good at dancing and sports.
13. LOGICAL-MATHEMATICAL
INTELLIGENCE
Good at reasoning, recognizing
patterns and logically analyzing
problems.
Tends to think conceptually
about numbers, patterns and
relationships
Need to learn from concepts
before dealing with details.
14. EXISTENTIALIST INTELLIGENCE
Has the sensitivity and capacity to
tackle deep questions about human
existence, such as the meaning
of life, why do we die, and
how we got here.
This intelligence is seen in the discipline
of Philosophy (Idealism).
This type of intelligence
was added later to the
original 8 types of intelligences.